In this chapter we develop a general theory of optimal spacecraft trajectories based on two pioneering works: Breakwell [1959] and Lawden [1963]. Lawden introduced the concept of the primer vector, which plays a dominant role in minimum-propellant trajectories and also in other types of optimal trajectories. A more complete discussion of the topics in this chapter, including several example trajectories, is in Prussing [2010].


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    Title :

    General Theory of Optimal Rocket Trajectories


    Additional title:

    Space Technology Library


    Contributors:


    Publication date :

    2013-09-18


    Size :

    20 pages




    Type of media :

    Article/Chapter (Book)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English





    Singular optimal atmospheric rocket trajectories

    KUMAR, RENJITH / KELLEY, HENRY J. | AIAA | 1988


    Necessary conditions for optimal rocket trajectories

    Lawden, D.F. | Engineering Index Backfile | 1959


    Optimal Rocket Trajectories Using Gradient Methods

    Ben-Asher, Joseph Z. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 2016