Evaluation of Low-Thrust Synergetic Maneuvers During Planetary Flybys
Published in Astrodynamics Specialist Conference, 2021
Previous interplanetary missions have used non-powered flyby maneuvers to gain delta-v via gravity assist. In this research, trajectories similar to previous missions are studied to compare the effect of applied continuous thrust while a spacecraft is flying inside a planet’s sphere of influence. Compared to a free flyby, a spacecraft with continuous thrust capability can optimize the path and possibly allow a wider window for mission design. The focus is a proof-of-concept for gravity assists using continuous thrust within the SOI of each encountered planet for a synergetic ∆v. With further development, it is expected to generate optimized trajectories to target a planet with powered gravity assist. In the interplanetary results, the algorithm was able to find a path with two successful powered planetary flybys from a given set of dates.
Recommended citation: G. Paik, R. Melton (2021). "Evaluation of Low-Thrust Synergetic Maneuvers During Planetary Flybys." AAS/AIAA Astrodynamics Specialist Conference. AAS 21-721
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