AAS 98-169

FORMATION FLYING IN THE VICINITY OF LIBRATION POINT ORBITS

B. T. Barden, K. C. Howell - Purdue University

Abstract

Recent theoretical and numerical advances in trajectory design in the three-body problem have provided several new mission possibilities. Many of the advances have come from the application of dynamical systems theory. However, the majority of the design issues are based solely on the stable and unstable manifold of libration point orbits. This study seeks to utilize the center manifold in trajectory design in two different ways. First, the center manifold will be used as a means to include the size of the halo orbit as a design parameter in transfer trajectory design. Second, new mission options will be investigated (via the center manifold) that include flying multiple spacecraft in a controlled formation near a libration point. As part of the development, a discussion will be presented on the types of motions that exist near libration points and the transitions from one type of motion to another.

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