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Three-dimensional time Optimal Multi-reversal Orbit by Using Solar Sailing

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Abstract

In this paper a new family of three dimensional (3D) non-Keplerian orbits is produced by using ideally reflective solar sailing. A sailcraft departs from the Earth orbit to accomplish a novel periodic orbit with orbital angular momentum reversing four times over one period. Such a new kind of orbit is referred to as the “multi-reversal orbit”. It is symmetrical with respect to the plane which contains the Sun-perihelion line. This property benefits the calculations and reduces the simulation effort. In order to find the minimum periodic orbits, a time optimal control model is constructed and solved by using an indirect method. Two typical 3D multi-reversal orbits are obtained with different orbital constraints. Some orbital characteristic, like quasi-heliostationary condition near its two aphelion points, are demonstrated via numerical simulations. A comparison between these two typical orbits is conducted to show more details about this new orbit. Differences between the multi-reversal orbit and double-reversal orbit are presented to show the advantages of the multi-reversal concept.

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Acknowledgments

The first author would like to acknowledge the financial support provided by the China Scholarship Council to be as a Visiting Ph.D. Student in Texas A&M University with TEES Research Chair Professor Kyle T. Alfriend.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. PhD Candidate, School of Aerospace, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China

    Xiangyuan Zeng

  2. TEES Research Chair Professor, Department of Aerospace Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA

    Kyle T. Alfriend

  3. Stewart & Stevenson-I Professor, Department of Aerospace Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, USA

    S. R. Vadali

Authors
  1. Xiangyuan Zeng
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  2. Kyle T. Alfriend
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  3. S. R. Vadali
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Correspondence to S. R. Vadali.

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Zeng, X., Alfriend, K.T. & Vadali, S.R. Three-dimensional time Optimal Multi-reversal Orbit by Using Solar Sailing. J of Astronaut Sci 60, 378–395 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40295-015-0056-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40295-015-0056-y

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