Rapid Trajectory Optimization for Mars Aerobraking Campaigns

Aerobraking is a key technology for reducing propellant consumption in deep space exploration missions. Targeting the Mars aerobraking trajectory optimization problem, this paper proposes a rapid trajectory optimization method based on a high-precision analytical approximate solution. First, a Mars aerobraking dynamics model is established. Based on the assumptions of a linear flight path angle and a linear altitude rate, a high-precision analytical approximate solution for Mars aerobraking trajectories is derived. Simulation results verify that the proposed analytical solution satisfies the accuracy requirements for Mars aerobraking trajectory optimization. Based on this analytical solution, the state transition function of the aerobraking trajectory optimization problem is reconstructed, and the Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP) algorithm is employed for the optimization. Numerical simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method requires less than one minute to optimize an aerobraking campaign consisting of 80 atmospheric passes. Compared with traditional optimization methods, it exhibits significant advantages in computational efficiency when dealing with aerobraking trajectory optimization problems characterized by long durations and multiple velocity pulses.