Method for Transferring a Spacecraft from Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit to Lunar Orbit

TBMG-28849

05/01/2018

Abstract
Content

This novel innovation from Ames Research Center allows spacecraft to share rides with larger spacecraft that are headed to Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO). The secondary spacecraft is dropped off Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) at any time during the day or year, and will subsequently enter lunar orbit, with no constraint on the lunar orbit inclination. The secondary spacecraft can be relatively small, riding as a secondary payload with a larger primary spacecraft. The secondary spacecraft is intended to be controllable (i.e., maneuverable).

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Citation
"Method for Transferring a Spacecraft from Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit to Lunar Orbit," Mobility Engineering, May 1, 2018.
Additional Details
Publisher
Published
May 1, 2018
Product Code
TBMG-28849
Content Type
Magazine Article
Language
English