The rocket problem in general relativity
arXiv:1105.5235
Abstract
We derive the covariant optimality conditions for rocket trajectories in general relativity, with and without a bound on the magnitude of the proper acceleration. The resulting theory is then applied to solve two specific problems: the minimum fuel consumption transfer between two galaxies in a FLRW model, and between two stable circular orbits in the Schwarzschild spacetime.
arXiv comment21 pages, 3 figures; v2: several changes to improve clarity, including a new derivation of the rocket equation; matches final published version