Voyager 2 Neptune targeting strategyThe success of the Voyager 2 flybys of Neptune and Triton depends upon the ability to correct the spacecraft's trajectory. Accurate spacecraft delivery to the desired encounter conditions will promote the maximum science return. However, Neptune's great distance causes large a priori uncertainties in Neptune and Triton ephemerides and planetary system parameters. Consequently, the 'ideal' trajectory is unknown beforehand. The targeting challenge is to utilize the gradually improving knowledge as the spacecraft approaches Neptune to meet the science objectives, but with an overriding concern for spacecraft safety and a desire to limit propellant expenditure. A unique targeting strategy has been developed in response to this challenge. Through the use of a Monte Carlo simulation, candidate strategies are evaluated by the degree to which they meet these objectives and are compared against each other in determining the targeting strategy to be adopted.
Document ID
19890037920
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Potts, C. L. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Francis, K. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Matousek, S. E. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Cesarone, R. J. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Gray, D. L. (California Institute of Technology Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, United States)