Modelling and optimization of insertion maneuvers at Mars

Insertion maneuvers are used to move a spacecraft from an open orbit (parabolic or hyperbolic) into a closed orbit around a target body. These maneuvers are key components in any space mission considering orbiting a body for a large amount of time, for exploration or landing; the hyperbolic orbit will be the one that will be used to transfer...

Fast computation of SEP transfers to Mars using analytic curve-fit functions

The increasing interest in solar electric propulsion techniques, that enable significant propellant mass savings for a wide class of transfers, has brought about a revolution in the approach to trajectory design and optimization, as a result of the complexity and diversity of the problem. To date, solutions of different nature exist, but...