73202 - Spacecraft Orbital Dynamics and Control

Learning outcomes

The student learns in details the dynamics of the centre of mass of an artificial satellite, both in the case of motion around a planet or for interplanetary trajectories. Also, the strategies and control laws for orbital maintenance, rendezvous, injection into an interplanetary trajectory and around a target planet are explained, as well as techniques for trajectory design using classical impulsive or low-thrust manoeuvres.

Course contents

Elements of Keplerian orbital mechanics

Equations of Astrodynamics

Lagrange and Gauss planetary equations

Effect of the main orbital perturbations

- Earth flattening (J2)

- Ellipticity of the Equator (J22)

- Hints on North-South asymmetry (J3)

- Atmospheric Drag, hints on atmospheric models

- Solar radiation pressure

- Third body effect

Station keeping maneuvers

- Geostationary satellites (North-South)

- Geostationary satellites (East-West)

Interplanetary Trajectories

- Impulsive and low-thrust maneuvers

- Gravity-assist and Aero-Gravity-assist maneuvers

- Lambert problem

- Trajectory optimization with Python

Rendez-vous

Euler-Hill equation

Circular restricted three body problem

Readings/Bibliography

Course notes distributed by the lecturer.

Further readings:

1. David A. Vallado, “Fundamentals of Astrodynamics and Applications” (Fourth Edition), ISBN: 978-11881883180, Microcosm Press, (2013)
2. Richard H. Battin, “An introduction to the mathematics and methods of astrodynamics” ISBN 1-56347-342-9, AIAA education series (1999)
3. A. E. Roy, “Orbital Motion”, ISBN-13: 978-0750310154, CRC Press (2004)
4. Oliver Montenbruck ; Eberhard Gill, “Satellite orbits : models, methods, and applications”, ISBN 978-3-540-67280-7, Springer-Verlag (2000)
5. Parker, Jeffrey S., and Rodney L. Anderson. Low-energy lunar trajectory design. Vol. 12. John Wiley & Sons (2014).

Teaching methods

During classes, the lecturer presents the subjects, including explicit proof of all mathematical formulas introduced and the presentation of the methods to solve the problems given during the practicing hours.

Some subjects are explored through practical exercises using Python.

Regarding the teaching methods of this course unit, all students must attend Modules 1 and 2 on Health and Safety online.

Assessment methods

The examination usually consists of three questions, which allow one to assess the capability of the student to resolve new problems or at least to set up the correct resolutive strategy. Assessing such ability has a fundamental weight in attributing the final marks. To pass the examination, the student must pass at least two of the three questions placed by the lecturer.

Teaching tools

Stardand tools include: blackboard, LCD projector, and PC.

Office hours

See the website of Riccardo Lasagni Manghi