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Space Flight Mechanics for Exploration Systems Short Course |
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Dates: August 16-17, 2006
Location: NIA, Rm 101
Instructor: Dr. Robert Tolson, North Carolina State University
Registration: Closed to the public.
This two-day course offers an overview of space flight mechanics theory and application for Earth, lunar and planetary orbiting satellites, trans-lunar trajectories, and interplanetary trajectories. Space Flight Mechanics for Exploration surveys all the sub-disciplines required for design, optimization, and execution of space missions. Topics covered include the coordinate and time systems that are fundamental to any orbital mechanics problem, but often overlooked in typical university classes. The two body orbital mechanics problem, first approximation to all exploration orbits or trajectories, is covered in detail. The three body problem is unsolvable, but has the famous Lagrange points as particular solutions and the role of the Lagrange points in mission design will be covered. The three body problems also provides the theory behind gravity assisted trajectories. Perturbations to two body motion must be understood because they are both a barrier to and a gateway to mission accomplishment. To demonstrate this, the orbital mechanics of numerous "special" orbits will illustrated. To get from the Earth to the Moon or Mars and home again requires a number of orbit phases and transfers between these phases. Optimal orbit transfers including plane changes, phasing maneuvers, Hohmann transfers, sphere of influence and other concepts are explored. If time permits, space flight navigation including the fundamentals of orbit determination and guidance will be reviewed.
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