Analysis of the Fully Numerical Predictor-Corrector Aerocapture Guidance for an Earth-Based Demonstration

Aerocapture serves as an enabling technology for time and propellant-efficient atmospheric planetary exploration. To progress this technology beyond simulation, guidance algorithms for aerocapture require maturation to flight-implementable code for future technology demonstrations. In this work, we expand the Fully Numerical Predictor-corrector Aerocapture Guidance (FNPAG) algorithm for use in an Earth-based aerocapture demonstration. In addition to longitudinal targeting, a lateral targeting strategy is chosen and assessed using a novel bank maneuver strategy selection algorithm developed in this work. Sensitivity analyses and implementation tradeoffs of FNPAG are explored for planned Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) and lunar return mission designs.