COMPUTER PROGRAM FOR OPTIMUM LOWTHRUST ORBIT TRANSFERS,
Abstract
The memorandum describes a digital computer program written in FORTRAN IV, which simulates mathematically a multi-stage low-thrust orbit transfer process. The process provides a means of transferring a space vehicle from some initial orbit to a desired terminal orbit along an optimum path with respect to some quadratic performance criteria. The program was generalized to enable it to handle such problems as orbit correction of a 24-hour communication satellite, transfer of a vehicle from an orbit around earth to one around a neighboring planet, or rendezvous of a space vehicle with an earth satellite. The memorandum may serve as a reference manual for those desiring to use the program, and it was organized so that the user can acquaint himself with the program to any degree desired. After a general description of the program, its capabilities and limitations, and a complete set of instructions concerning its use, two numerical examples are given. This material should provide sufficient detail for anyone desiring to use the program in its present form. For those wishing to modify or examine the substance of the program, a complete description of each routine including equations and flow charts is given. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0620876
Entities
People
- J. A. Jolissaint
Organizations
- RAND Corporation