Aerospace Engineering Commons^™

Spacecraft Trajectory Optimization Suite (Stops): Optimization Of Multiple Gravity Assist Spacecraft Trajectories Using Modern Optimization Techniques, Timothy J. Fitzgerald

Master's Theses

In trajectory optimization, a common objective is to minimize propellant mass via multiple gravity assist maneuvers (MGAs). Some computer programs have been developed to analyze MGA trajectories. One of these programs, Parallel Global Multiobjective Optimization (PaGMO), uses an interesting technique known as the Island Model Paradigm. This work provides the community with a MATLAB optimizer, STOpS, that utilizes this same Island Model Paradigm with five different optimization algorithms. STOpS allows optimization of a weighted combination of many parameters. This work contains a study on optimization algorithm performance and how each algorithm is affected by its available settings.

STOpS successfully found …

Experimental Investigations Of Dusty Spacecraft Charging At The Lunar Terminator, Kevin Chou, William Yu, Daoru Frank Han, Joseph J. Wang

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Faculty Research & Creative Works

An experimental investigation is conducted to understand the I-V characteristics and floating potential of a surface covered by varying amounts of dust in a plasma environment similar to that at the lunar terminator. I-V curves are measured to determine dust coverage effects on surface charging, and a non-contacting electrostatic voltmeter is used to measure dust surface charging. Results show that as dust coverage increases, the electric field created between the dust surface layer and conducting surface layer increases the possibility of arcing and breakdown.

Work Done On The Operating Software For Openorbiter, Dayln Limesand, Timothy Whitney, Jeremy Straub, Ronald Marsh

Jeremy Straub

The OpenOrbiter Program aims to develop a tem-plate for a CubeSat spacecraft that can be used world-wide to reduce spacecraft development costs1. Unlike other approaches, which may require $50,000 in upfront hardware costs2 or $250,000 in design expenses2, an OPEN-class spacecraft can be built with a parts budget of under $5,0003. This aims to enable low-cost educa-tional missions and missions in developing regions4.

Review Of Seal Designs On The Apollo Spacecraft, Joshua Finkbeiner, Patrick Dunlap, Bruce Steinetz, Christopher Daniels

Dr. Christopher C Daniels

The Apollo spacecraft required a variety of seal designs to support human spaceflight to the moon and to return the crew safely to Earth. High-temperature seals were required for gaps in the thermal protection system to protect the underlying structures from the high heating environment of super orbital reentry. Reliable pressure seals were also required to prevent the loss of habitable atmosphere during missions to the moon...