Abstract A magnetic sail is an advanced propellantless propulsion system that uses the interaction between the solar wind and an artificial magnetic field generated by the spacecraft, to produce a propulsive thrust in interplanetary space. The aim of this paper is to collect the available experimental data, and the simulation results, to develop a simplified mathematical model that describes the propulsive acceleration of a magnetic sail, in an analytical form, for mission analysis purposes. Such a mathematical model is then used for estimating the performance of a magnetic sail-based spacecraft in a two-dimensional, minimum time, deep space mission scenario. In particular, optimal and locally optimal steering laws are derived using an indirect approach. The obtained results are then applied to a mission analysis involving both an optimal Earth–Venus (circle-to-circle) interplanetary transfer, and a locally optimal Solar System escape trajectory. For example, assuming a characteristic acceleration of 1mm/s2, an optimal Earth–Venus transfer may be completed within about 380 days.
Highlights A magnetic sail (Magsail) is an advanced thruster for deep space mission. This paper develops a mathematical model of a Magsail for mission analysis. Optimal and locally optimal steering laws are derived using an indirect approach. An optimal Earth–Venus transfer and a Solar System escape mission are discussed.
Optimal control laws for heliocentric transfers with a magnetic sail
Acta Astronautica ; 89 ; 216-225
2013-04-17
10 pages
Article (Journal)
Electronic Resource
English
Optimal control laws for heliocentric transfers with a magnetic sail
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