Optimization of low thrust trajectories with terminal aerocapture
Authors
Josselyn, Scott B.
Subjects
Low thrust
Aerocapture
Trajectory design
Aerocapture
Trajectory design
Advisors
Ross, I. Michael
Date of Issue
2003-06
Date
June 2003
Publisher
Monterey, California. Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This thesis explores using a direct pseudospectral method for the solution of optimal control problems with mixed dynamics. An easy to use MATLAB optimization package known as DIDO is used to obtain the solutions. The modeling of both low thrust interplanetary trajectories as well as aerocapture trajectories is detailed and the solutions for low thrust minimum time and minimum fuel trajectories are explored with particular emphasis on verification of the optimality of the obtained solution. Optimal aerocpature trajectories are solved for rotating atmospheres over a range of arrival Vinfinities. Solutions are obtained using various performance indexes including minimum fuel, minimum heat load, and minimum total aerocapture mass. Finally, the problem formulation and solutions for the mixed dynamic problem of low thrust trajectories with a terminal aerocapture maneuver is addressed yielding new trajectories maximizing the total scientific mass at arrival.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Aeronautics and Astronautics
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
Funder
Format
xx, 151 p. : ill. (some col.)
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.