Impulsive Trajectories from Earth to Callisto–Io–Ganymede Triple Flyby Jovian Capture

Abstract

Triple-satellite-aided capture sequences use gravity-assist flybys of three of Jupiter's four massive Galilean moons to help capture a spacecraft into orbit about Jupiter. A novel triple-satellite-aided capture uses sequential flybys of Callisto, Io, and Ganymede to reduce the ΔV required to capture into orbit about Jupiter. An optimal broken-plane maneuver is added between Earth and Jupiter to form a complete chemical/impulsive interplanetary trajectory from Earth to Jupiter. Such a trajectory can yield significant fuel savings over single and double-flyby capture schemes while maintaining a brief and simple interplanetary transfer phase. The developed methods maintain flexibility for adaptation to similar launch, cruise, and capture conditions. Nomenclature a = semimajor axis B = B-plane miss radius e = eccentricity i = inclination R = radius V = velocity θ = B-plane angle ν = true anomaly Ω = right ascension of the ascending node ω = argument of periapsis