An algorithm based on gradient techniques, proposed in a companion paper, is applied to numerical analysis of optimal low-thrust limited-power trajectories for simple transfer (no rendezvous) between coplanar circular orbits in a central Newtonian gravity field. The proposed algorithm combines the main positive characteristics of two well-known methods in optimization of trajectories: the steepest-descent method and the direct second variation method. The analysis is carried out for various radius ratios and transfer durations. The results are compared to the ones provided by a linear analytical theory. The performance of the proposed algorithm shows that it is a good tool in determining optimal low-thrust limited-power trajectories between close circular coplanar orbits in a Newtonian central gravity field.
Numerical computation of optimal low-thrust limited-power trajectories - Transfers between coplanar circular orbits
Journal of the Brazilian Society of Mechanical Sciences and Engineering ; 27 , 2 ; 178-185
2005
8 Seiten, 15 Bilder, 4 Tabellen, 24 Quellen
Article (Journal)
English
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