Application and Comparison of Stable Periodic Orbits in the Vicinity of Lagrangian Points L4 and L5 to a Four-Body Truth Model.

Abstract

All previously discovered stable periodic orbits about the triangular libration points are tested on a planar restricted four-body truth model. The truth model is an algorithm developed from equations used by T.A. Heppenheimer for colony location used perturbation theory and the equation of the center. Only one of the orbits, developed by Wheeler using a very restricted four-body problem with Sun - Moon - Earth circular motion, is found to be relatively stable for at least twenty years. It is prograde about L4 having a period in resonance with the lunar synodic month. Two other orbits, one similar to Wheeler's and one 180 degrees out of phase found by Kolenkiewicz and Carpenter are marginally stable.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1979
Accession Number
ADA079683

Entities

People

  • William D. Beekman

Organizations

  • Air Force Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Algorithms
  • Circular Orbits
  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Coordinate Systems
  • Differential Equations
  • Equations
  • Equations Of Motion
  • Numerical Analysis
  • Orbits
  • Perihelions
  • Perturbations
  • Plastic Explosives
  • Resonance
  • Shape

Readers

  • Control Systems Engineering.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris