Optimal generalized Hohmann transfer with plane change using lagrange multipliers

The optimized orbit transfer of a space vehicle, revolving initially around the primary, in a similar orbit to that of the Earth around the Sun, in an elliptic trajectory, to another similar elliptic orbit of an adequate outer planet is studied in this paper. We assume the elements of the initial orbit to be that of the Earth, and the elements of the final orbit to be that of an outer adequate planet, Mars for instance. We consider the case of two impulse generalized Hohmann non coplanar orbits. We need noncoplanar (plane change) maneuvers mainly because: 1) a launch-site location restricts the initial orbit inclination for the vehicle; 2) the direction of the launch can influence the amount of velocity the booster must supply, so certain orientations may be more desirable; and 3) timing constraints may dictate a launch window that isn’t the best, from which we must make changes[3]. We used the Lagrange multipliers method to get the optimum of the total minimum energy required ΔVT , by optimizing the two plane change angles 1 and 2, where 1 is the plane change at the first instantaneous impulse at peri-apse, and 2 the plane change at the second instantaneous thrust at apo-apse. We adopt the case of Earth - Mars, as a numerical example.

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Opracowanie ze środków MNiSW w ramach umowy 812/P-DUN/2016 na działalność upowszechniającą naukę (zadania 2017).