Abstract Mission analysis using aerogravity-assist (AGA) maneuver at Titan is presented in this paper. Considering Saturn arrival, Titan encounter, and different post-AGA orbits, the analysis uses vector diagrams to illustrate the relations among all conditions as well as design constraints. The analysis focuses on Enceladus mission concept and also present a summary result for Cassini-type Saturn system missions. Turn angles using AGA maneuver at Titan are quantified via numerical simulation, showing that 25-deg AGA turn angles are achievable with a Titan inbound excess velocity ( V ,  IN ) of 10–20 km/s. Results show that for an Enceladus mission, V ,  IN of 10 km/s is the minimum velocity required for AGA maneuver to achieve an outbound transfer orbit directly to Enceladus; the corresponding peak g-load is less than 6 g, peak heat rate less than 200 W/cm2, and total heat load of around 25 kJ/cm2. For a Cassini-type Saturn mission, a minimum V ,  IN of 5 km/s can be used for Titan AGA. The results showed are for V ,  IN of 6 km/s; and the corresponding peak g-load, peak heat rate, and total heat load are 1.5 g, 20 W/cm2, and 5 kJ/cm2 respectively.

    Highlights Design space for Saturn system missions using Titan aerogravity-assist is fully explored. A novel method combining graphic approach using vector diagrams and numerical simulation is presented. Readiness of entry vehicles and TPS technologies for using Titan aerogravity-assist maneuver is evaluated.


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    Title :

    Titan aerogravity-assist maneuvers for Saturn/Enceladus missions


    Contributors:
    Lu, Ye (author) / Saikia, Sarag J. (author)

    Published in:

    Acta Astronautica ; 176 ; 262-275


    Publication date :

    2020-06-01


    Size :

    14 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English