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At least 19 records

Astrodynamics 1989; Proceedings of the AAS/AIAA Astrodynamics Conference, Stowe, VT, Aug. 7-10, 1989. Parts 1 & 2

The conference focuses of analytical and numerical aspects of astrodynamics and celestial mechanics with emphasis on planetary mission design, trajectory analysis and design, orbit determination, attitude determination and control, guidance systems, and dynamics and control of large flexible space structures. Trajectory computation techniques, satellite dynamics, and geocentric satellite orbit analysis are presented, along with earth orbiter mission analysis, trajectory optimization applications, planetary spacecraft orbit determination, and orbiting debris considerations. Neutral upper-atmosphere density is addressed, and guidance analysis, planetary mission design and analysis, trajectory analysis, estimation/identification techniques are discussed in addition to the dynamics and control of space structures or multi-body systems.

Thornton, Catherine L.

Experiments with Julia for Astrodynamics Applications

Julia's potential for solving complex astrodynamics problems is studied. Julia is a high-level, new, dynamic programming language with performance approaching C/Fortran and has features like inbuilt parallelism, variable accuracy, integrated numerical libraries and direct C and Fortran interfaces. Two astrodynamics problems are solved in Julia: 1) Lambert's problem, using the vercosine formulation and 2) trajectory integration. Implemented algorithms are compared with C and Fortran based counterparts on key performance parameters (speed, development effort, etc). Using Julia for fast and reliable astrodynamics software development is also discussed.

Arora, Nitin

Stereosat - A new astrodynamics challenge

The paper investigates the astrodynamics requirements for a spacecraft which produces stereo images of the land masses of the earth for use in geoscience investigations, cartography and earth resource exploration. It describes a candidate Stereosat imaging product, presents criteria for evaluating potential image quality and usability, and assesses the impact of various spacecraft and astrodynamic factors on image quality. Several challenges are identified and discussed, namely (1) securing adequate image quality for pixel level elevation measurements, (2) determining absolute location of imaged phenomena in remote regions, (3) satisfying the long-term orbit prediction requirements, and (4) transmitting accurate orbit data along with the image data stream. Meeting these challenges will greatly enhance operational facility.

Driver, J. M.

New developments in astrodynamics algorithms for autonomous rendezvous

A the core of any autonomous rendezvous guidance system must be two algorithms for solving Lambert's and Kepler's problems, the two fundamental problems in classical astrodynamics. Lambert's problem is to determine the trajectory connecting specified initial and terminal position vectors in a specified transfer time. The solution is the initial and terminal velocity vectors. Kepler's problem is to determine the trajectory that stems from a given initial state (position and velocity). The solution is the state of an earlier or later specified time. To be suitable for flight software, astrodynamics algorithms must be totally reliable, compact, and fast. Although solving Lambert's and Kepler's problems has challenged some of the world's finest minds for over two centuries, only in the last year have algorithms appeared that satisfy all three requirements just stated. This paper presents an evaluation of the most highly regarded Lambert and Kepler algorithms.

Klumpp, Allan R.

New Results in Astrodynamics Using Genetic Algorithms

Generic algorithms have gained popularity as an effective procedure for obtaining solutions to traditionally difficult space mission optimization problems. In this paper, a brief survey of the use of genetic algorithms to solve astrodynamics problems is presented and is followed by new results obtained from applying a Pareto genetic algorithm to the optimization of low-thrust interplanetary spacecraft missions.

generic algorithms optimization problems astrodyna

Space Shuttle astrodynamical constants

Basic space shuttle astrodynamic constants are reported for use in mission planning and construction of ground and onboard software input loads. The data included here are provided to facilitate the use of consistent numerical values throughout the project.

Cockrell, B. F.

Some applications of Lie groups in astrodynamics

Differential equations that arise in astrodynamics are examined from the standpoint of Lie group theory. A summary of the Lie method is given for first degree differential equations. The Kepler problem in Hamiltonian form is treated by this method. Extension of the Lie method to optimal trajectories is outlined.

Jackson, A. A.

Colorado Center for Astrodynamics Research (CCAR)

Viewgraphs on the Colorado Center for Astrodynamics Research (CCAR) are presented. Topics covered include: EOSDIS testbed: an Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer (AVHRR) data system for snowpack and vegetation studies; satellite data processing software; satellite data analysis activities; mass storage systems; wide area network connections; and remote access.

Emery, William

Interactive Software For Astrodynamical Calculations

QUICK computer program provides user with facilities of sophisticated desk calculator performing scalar, vector, and matrix arithmetic; propagate conic-section orbits; determines planetary and satellite coordinates; and performs other related astrodynamic calculations within FORTRAN-like software environment. QUICK is interpreter, and no need to use compiler or linker to run QUICK code. Outputs plotted in variety of formats on variety of terminals. Written in RATFOR.

Schlaifer, Ronald S.

Dual RF Astrodynamic GPS Orbital Navigator Satellite

Dual RF Astrodynamic GPS Orbital Navigator Satellite (DRAGONSat) will demonstrate autonomous rendezvous and docking (ARD) in low Earth orbit (LEO) and gather flight data with a global positioning system (GPS) receiver strictly designed for space applications. ARD is the capability of two independent spacecraft to rendezvous in orbit and dock without crew intervention. DRAGONSat consists of two picosatellites (one built by the University of Texas and one built by Texas A and M University) and the Space Shuttle Payload Launcher (SSPL); this project will ultimately demonstrate ARD in LEO.

Kanipe, David B.