Parametric Optimization of Low Thrust Orbital Maneuvers

Abstract

The goal of the present paper is to make a numerical analysis of parametric optimization of low thrust orbital maneuver. An orbital maneuver occurs when it is necessary to modify the orbit a space vehicle to change its function or to correct effects of perturbations. A parametric optimization is made when the thrust is not free to point to any direction, but has to follow some prescribed law, like a linear or quadratic relation with time.