Low-Thrust Maneuverability Using Bilinear Tangent Guidance near Small Bodies

What is it about?

Low-thrust propulsion is a natural choice for spacecraft propulsion around small bodies due to the small forces associated with the small body dynamical environment. However, there are many situations where current low-thrust guidance and control algorithms fail to meet the operational needs of small body missions. We explore the application of the bilinear tangent control law coupled with low-thrust propulsion to accurately maneuver spacecraft in the orbital environment around small bodies.

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