SUNSPOT: A computer program for producing optimal solar sail planetocentric trajectories

Abstract

The input, output and subroutines, including listings, for the SUNSPOT code are described. SUNSPOT can calculate time optimal planetocentric trajectories including orbit-to-orbit transfer and orbit to a subescape point. Trajectories about the the four inner planets can be calculated, and shadowing, oblateness, and solar motion may be included. A penalty function may be included to prevent trajectories which intersect the planet's surface.