Survey of optimization techniques for nonlinear spacecraft trajectory searches

Abstract

Mathematical analysis of the optimal search of a nonlinear spacecraft trajectory to arrive at a set of desired targets is presented. A high precision integrated trajectory program and several optimization software libraries are used to search for a converged nonlinear spacecraft trajectory. Several examples for the Galileo Jupiter Orbiter and the Ocean Topography Experiment (TOPEX) are presented that illustrate a variety of the optimization methods used in nonlinear spacecraft trajectory searches.

Navigation Flight Operations for Mars Pathfinder

“…8 The program SEPV of the DPTRAJ software set was used to target the interplanetary trajectory to the required atmospheric interface geometry. 9 The Bplane coordinates and arrival time associated with the desired descent and landing conditions were obtained through iterative application of these two programs. 10 SEPV was also used to calculate the required velocity change (D V) vector for each maneuver.…”