Some examples of “non-completed” boundary value problem solutions for multi-orbital transfers to geostationary orbit with zero thrust in the shadow

R. Z. Akhmetshin


Abstract: Transfers in the central Newtonian field from high-elliptical orbits to geostationary one of a spacecraft with low thrust, which becomes zero in the Earth shadow, are considered. To find such trajectories so called 'non-completed' two-point boundary value problem that do not include a condition of optimal crossing the shadow boundary is solved. It's shown that when a longitude of ascending node $\Omega_0$ is equal to $180^\circ$ expenditures of working substance are not much more than for a basic transfer (without switching the low thrust off). If $\Omega_0$ is chosen the best and the duration of flight is half-year or smaller then expenditures are less than for a basic transfer.

Keywords: multi-orbital trajectories, spacecraft, low thrust, geostationary orbit, Earth shadow, two-point boundary value problem.

DOI: 10.20948/prepr-2019-133