Stabilizing periodic orbits above the Ecliptic plane in the solar sail 3-body problem

J. D. Biggs, C. McLnnes, T. Waters

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

We consider periodic orbits high above the ecliptic plane in the Elliptic Restricted Three-Body Problem where the third massless body is a solar sail. Periodic orbits above the ecliptic are of practical interest as they are ideally positioned for the year-round constant imaging of, and communication with, the poles. Initially we identify an unstable periodic orbit by using a numerical continuation from a known periodic orbit above the ecliptic in the circular case with the eccentricity as the varying parameter. This orbit is then used to construct a reference trajectory for the sail to track. In addition we illustrate an alternative method for constructing a periodic reference trajectory based on a time-delayed feedback mechanism. The reference trajectories are then tracked using a linear feedback regulator (LQR) where the control actuation is delivered by varying the solar sails orientation. Using this method it is shown that a 'near term' solar sail could potentially perform stable periodic motions high above the ecliptic plane.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationInternational Astronautical Federation - 59th International Astronautical Congress 2008, IAC 2008
Pages4964-4970
Number of pages7
Publication statusPublished - 2008
Event59th International Astronautical Congress 2008, IAC 2008 - Glasgow, United Kingdom
Duration: 29 Sept 20083 Oct 2008

Publication series

NameInternational Astronautical Federation - 59th International Astronautical Congress 2008, IAC 2008
Volume8

Conference

Conference59th International Astronautical Congress 2008, IAC 2008
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityGlasgow
Period29/09/083/10/08

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