This book explores the design of optimal trajectories for space maneuver vehicles (SMVs) using optimal control-based techniques. It begins with a comprehensive introduction to and overview of three main approaches to trajectory optimization, and subsequently focuses on the design of a novel hybrid optimization strategy that combines an initial guess generator with an improved gradient-based inner optimizer. Further, it highlights the development of multi-objective spacecraft trajectory optimization problems, with a particular focus on multi-objective transcription methods and multi-objective evolutionary algorithms. In its final sections, the book studies spacecraft flight scenarios with noise-perturbed dynamics and probabilistic constraints, and designs and validates new chance-constrained optimal control frameworks. The comprehensive and systematic treatment of practical issues in spacecraft trajectory optimization is one of the book’s major features, making it particularly suited for readers who are seeking practical solutions in spacecraft trajectory optimization. It offers a valuable asset for researchers, engineers, and graduate students in GNC systems, engineering optimization, applied optimal control theory, etc.

This is a long-overdue volume dedicated to space trajectory optimization. Interest in the subject has grown, as space missions of increasing levels of sophistication, complexity, and scientific return - hardly imaginable in the 1960s - have been designed and flown. Although the basic tools of optimization theory remain an accepted canon, there has been a revolution in the manner in which they are applied and in the development of numerical optimization. This volume purposely includes a variety of both analytical and numerical approaches to trajectory optimization. The choice of authors has been guided by the editor's intention to assemble the most expert and active researchers in the various specialities presented. The authors were given considerable freedom to choose their subjects, and although this may yield a somewhat eclectic volume, it also yields chapters written with palpable enthusiasm and relevance to contemporary problems.

Writing a comprehensive book on satellite communications requires the com mand of many technical disciplines and the availability of up-to-date information on international recommendations, system architectures, and equipment stand ards. It is therefore necessary to involve many authors, each possessing a good level of knowledge in a particular discipline. The problem of using a coherent and unambiguous set of definitions and basic terms has been solved by including in the book all the background information needed for understanding satellite communication systems, without any major reference to other textbooks specializing in particular disciplines. The obvious consequence of this approach has been the large size of the book, with the advantages, however, of practically complete independence from other books, more systematic discussion of the subject matter, and better readability. After the required background information, emphasis has been placed on the discussion of techniques and system design criteria rather than on specific equipment implementation or description of particular systems. The book may be divided in five parts as follows: • The first five chapters provide most of the required background information. • Chapter 6 is an introductory outline of satellite communication systems. • Chapters 7 to 13 deal with the various aspects of technical system design. • Chapter 14 discusses system economics. • Chapter 15 provides a brief insight into some foreseeable future develop ments of satellite communications.

A textbook on the theory and applications of optimal spacecraft trajectories

Reflecting the results of twenty years; experience in the field of multipurpose flights, this monograph includes the complex routes of the trajectories of a number of bodies (e.g., space vehicles, comets) in the solar system. A general methodological approach to the research of flight schemes and the choice of optimal performances is developed. Additionally, a number of interconnected methods and algorithms used at sequential stages of such development are introduced, which allow the selection of a rational multipurpose route for a space vehicle, the design of multipurpose orbits, the determination of optimal space vehicle design, and ballistic performances for carrying out the routes chosen. Other topics include the practical results obtained from using these methods, navigation problems, near-to-planet orbits, and an overview of proven and new flight schemes.

This volume contains a thorough overview of the rapidly growing field of global optimization, with chapters on key topics such as complexity, heuristic methods, derivation of lower bounds for minimization problems, and branch-and-bound methods and convergence. The final chapter offers both benchmark test problems and applications of global optimization, such as finding the conformation of a molecule or planning an optimal trajectory for interplanetary space travel. An appendix provides fundamental information on convex and concave functions. Intended for Ph.D. students, researchers, and practitioners looking for advanced solution methods to difficult optimization problems. It can be used as a supplementary text in an advanced graduate-level seminar.

Optimal Trajectories in Atmospheric Flight deals with the optimization of trajectories in atmospheric flight. The book begins with a simple treatment of functional optimization followed by a discussion of switching theory. It then presents the derivation of the general equations of motion along with the basic knowledge in aerodynamics and propulsion necessary for the analysis of atmospheric flight trajectories. It goes on to the study of optimal trajectories by providing the general properties of the optimal aerodynamic controls and the integrals of motion. This is followed by discussions of high subsonic and supersonic flight, and approximation techniques to reduce the order of the problem for a fast computation of the optimal trajectory. The final chapters present analyses of optimal reentry trajectories and orbital maneuvers. This book is intended as a reference text for scientists and engineers wanting to get into the subject of optimal trajectories in atmospheric flight. If used for teaching purposes, the book is written in a self-contained way so that a selective use of the material is at the discretion of the lecturer. The first 11 chapters are sufficient for a one-semester course with emphasis on optimal maneuvers of high performance aircraft.

Authoritative reference covering essential concepts of orbital mechanics and explaining how they relate to advanced space trajectory applications Space Trajectories is the first book to offer a comprehensive exploration of orbital mechanics and trajectory optimization in a single volume. Beginning with a review of essential concepts, the book progresses to advanced space applications, highlighting methods used in today's space missions. The contents are organized into three parts. The first part delves into free orbital motion, covering topics such as Keplerian motion, perturbed motion, the three-body problem, orbit determination, and collision risks in orbit. The second part focuses on controlled orbital motion, discussing impulsive transfer, orbital rendezvous, thrust level optimization, low-thrust transfer, and space debris cleaning. The third part examines ascent and reentry, including launch into orbit, launcher staging, analytical solutions in flat Earth, interplanetary missions, and atmospheric reentry. Each chapter is written in a modular way, featuring conclusion summaries, key points, and suggestions for further investigation. Examples are included with detailed solutions methods that readers can apply to solve their own trajectory problems. Written by an expert of the topic who has performed guidance of Ariane launchers for 30 years, Space Trajectories includes information on: Keplerian motion, motion time law, universal formulation, equinoctial parameters, and Lagrange coefficients Osculating orbit, Gauss equations, gravitational and third body perturbations, Lissajous and Halo orbits, and invariant manifolds Astrometry measurements, Kalman filtering, orbit uncertainties, and collision probability Transfer in one, two, or three impulses, minimum-energy transfer, Lambert's problem, high- and low-thrust transfer, and interplanetary path Launch and reentry trajectories, propulsion systems, optimized thrust profiles, and launcher staging Space Trajectories is an essential reference for students and researchers aiming to quickly understand the main issues in astrodynamics and the way to design trajectories, as well as space engineers seeking to consolidate their knowledge in the field of optimization and optimal control applied to aerospace and space missions.