1 research outputs found
Transfers between moons with escape and capture patterns via Lyapunov exponent maps
This contribution focuses on the design of low-energy transfers between
planetary moons and presents an efficient technique to compute trajectories
characterized by desirable behaviors in the vicinities of the departure and
destination bodies. The method utilizes finite-time Lyapunov exponent maps in
combination with the Moon-to-Moon Analytical Transfer (MMAT) method previously
proposed by the authors. The integration of these two components facilitates
the design of direct transfers between moons within the context of the circular
restricted three-body problem, and allows the inclusion of a variety of
trajectory patterns, such as captures, landings, transits and takeoffs, at the
two ends of a transfer. The foundations and properties of the technique are
illustrated through an application based on impulsive direct transfers between
Ganymede and Europa. However, the methodology can be employed to assist in the
design of more complex mission scenarios, such as moon tours