Hostname: page-component-7bb8b95d7b-5mhkq Total loading time: 0 Render date: 2024-09-13T17:05:56.957Z Has data issue: false hasContentIssue false

Low thrust orbit raising with J2 regression

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 July 2016

C. R. Mclnnes*
Affiliation:
Department of Aerospace Engineering, University of GlasgowGlasgow, UK

Abstract

Closed form solutions for low thrust orbit raising are well known for mission analysis and vehicle performance prediction. This paper provides extended solutions which include nodal regression through the effect of the J2 oblateness term in the geopotential. Since regression is a strong function of orbit radius, the resulting change in ascending node angle is coupled to the in-plane orbital motion. However, it is demonstrated that the resulting dynamical equations may be separated and solved sequentially. Nodal regression during orbit raising is of importance for solar electric vehicles due to the resulting variation of sun aspect angle and eclipse conditions.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 1997 

Access options

Get access to the full version of this content by using one of the access options below. (Log in options will check for institutional or personal access. Content may require purchase if you do not have access.)

References

1. Jaffe, L.D. Nuclear-electric reusable orbital transfer vehicle, J Space-craft and Rockets, 1988, 25, pp 375381.Google Scholar
2. Martin, A.R. and Cresdee, M.T. The use of electric propulsion for low Earth orbit spacecraft, JBIS, 1988, 41, pp 175182.Google Scholar
3. Deinninger, W.D. and Vondra, R.J. Electric propulsion for constellation deployment and spacecraft maneuvering, J Spacecraft and Rockets, 1989, 26, pp 352357.Google Scholar
4. Welch, C.S. Servicing polar platforms using low thrust propulsion, IAF-93-A.6.54, 44th IAF Congress, Graz, Austria, October 1993.Google Scholar
5. Wakker, K.E. Rocket Propulsion and Spaceflight Dynamics, Pitman, 1984.Google Scholar
6. Wiesel, W.E. Spaceflight Dynamics, McGraw-Hill, 1991.Google Scholar
7. Mcinnes, C.R. Compact analytical solutions for a decaying, precessing circular orbit. Aeronaut J, 1994, 98, (979), pp 357360.Google Scholar
8. Roy, A.E. Orbital Motion, Adam Hilger, 1992.Google Scholar