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Full-Text Articles in Astrodynamics
Trajectory Optimization For A Misson To The Trojan Asteroids, Shivaji Senapati Gadsing
Trajectory Optimization For A Misson To The Trojan Asteroids, Shivaji Senapati Gadsing
Masters Theses
The problem of finding a minimum-fuel trajectory for a mission to the Jovian Trojan asteroids is considered. The problem is formulated as a modified traveling salesman problem. Two different types of algorithms such as an exhaustive search algorithm and a serial rendezvous search algorithm are developed. The General Mission Analysis Tool (GMAT) is employed for finding optimum trajectories with minimal fuel consumption. The selection of a minimum-fuel mission trajectory, and the associated target asteroids, will be a key factor in determining feasibility and scientific value of a Trojan tour and rendezvous mission.
The transfer trajectory followed by a spacecraft between …
Feasibility Of Cubesat Formation Flight Using Rotation To Achieve Differential Drag, Skyler M. Shuford
Feasibility Of Cubesat Formation Flight Using Rotation To Achieve Differential Drag, Skyler M. Shuford
Aerospace Engineering
This paper presents the results of a study conducted to understand the feasibility of CubeSat formation flight. The mechanism for separation and formation studied was differential drag, achieved by rotating the CubeSats to give them different cross-sectional areas. Intuitively, lower altitude orbits provide much higher separation effects. Although the most influential orbital effects occur with maximum and minimum cross-sectional areas, an attitude-controlled and a tumbling CubeSat may provide enough differential drag to meet separation requirements of a mission. Formation flight is possible, but due to the non-linearity of the system, gain scheduling may be the most effective method of long …