Research on Optimizing Mars Atmospheric Capture Approach Trajectories Based on the Adaptive Differential Evolution Algorithm

To strictly balance orbital insertion precision with engineering constraints during Mars aerocapture, we present an angle-of-attack (AoA) trajectory optimization framework based on adaptive differential evolution. First, a three-degree-of-freedom flight dynamics model was established utilizing the Mars-GRAM 2024 atmospheric standard. Subsequently, we formulated a penalty function centered on apoapsis altitude deviation to enable constraint-oriented dynamic optimization. Within this framework, we introduced an adaptive, direction-guided mutation strategy that integrates global optimal individuals with elite solutions. Furthermore, a parameter update mechanism driven by mutation success rates was developed to significantly enhance algorithmic robustness and computational efficiency. The AoA command sequence for the capture phase was parameterized using a piecewise constant formulation. Comparative simulations under ±30% atmospheric uncertainty demonstrate that, within critical velocity ranges, our improved algorithm elevates the trajectory altitude by approximately 36 km compared to fixed AoA methods. Notably, it reduces convergence time by 50% while strictly adhering to spacecraft physical performance boundaries. These results underscore the method's capability to provide robust, high-precision orbital adjustment support for aerocapture missions in uncertain atmospheric environments.