An Optimal Initial Guess Generator for Entry Interface Targeters

Abstract

If a pure numerical iterative approach is used, targeting entry interface (EI) conditions for nominal and abort return trajectories or for correction maneuvers can be computationally expensive. This paper describes an algorithm to obtain an optimal impulsive maneuver that generates a trajectory satisfying a set of EI targets: inequality constraints on longitude, latitude and azimuth and a fixed flight-path angle. Most of the calculations require no iterations, making it suitable for real-time applications or large trade studies. This algorithm has been used to generate initial guesses for abort trajectories during Earth-Moon transfers.