Determination of the Minimum Delta V Transfer Trajectory from a Low Earth Orbit to a Stable Orbit Around the Lagrangian Point L4 in a Restricted Four-Body System.

Abstract

In this report, the equations of motion for a satellite in restricted four-body motion are derived and examined. An algorithm is developed that produces a minimum delta v transfer trajectory from a low Earth orbit to establishment in Wheeler's stable periodic orbit around L4. Both a Hohmann transfer and an infinite velocity, straight-line transfer are examined as initial conditions for integration of the equations of motion. Transfer trajectories are determined to ten points around Wheeler's orbit so that a minimum delta v trajectory can be determined. Two types of minimum delta v values were found. One type is a true minimum value, the other type is a limiting value beyond which the target orbit can not be reached. Results are presented on a transfer trajectory that gives a minimum delta v from the points examined. From these results a more accurate transfer location is estimated. (Author)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1979
Accession Number
ADA079881

Entities

People

  • Theron E. Weimer

Organizations

  • Air Force Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Air Force
  • Air Force Facilities
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Boundary Value Problems
  • Circular Orbits
  • Computer Programs
  • Differential Equations
  • Earth Orbits
  • Equations
  • Equations Of Motion
  • Low Earth Orbits
  • Military Organizations
  • Orbits
  • Trajectories
  • Transfer Orbits
  • United States

Readers

  • Calculus or Mathematical Analysis
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris