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Lunar Frozen OrbitsBased upon the derivation of the equations of frozen orbits about the Earth, an analytical formulation is presented for lunar frozen orbits (LFO) in a wide altitude range. Global examination is made of combinations of inclination, semimajor axis, and eccentricity to zero out the mean eccentricity and argument of periapsis drift. Included in this development are the effects of both the lunar gravity potential and third body perturbations. Unlike the Earth frozen orbits, with the major perturbation due to the uniform 52 through J5 gravity terms, lunar frozen orbits are restricted by the distribution of the lunar mascons. With accurate modeling, they exhibit a predictive pattern that drives the overall mission design. In addition to a derivation for analytical expressions, a fill1 numerical simulation is used for verification and examination of secular drift from all third body effects. This presentation addresses a selection of usable lunar orbits that reduce or eliminate the need for stationkeeping while maintaining usable science or communication/navigation orbit parameters.
Document ID
20080041459
Acquisition Source
Goddard Space Flight Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Folta, David
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Date Acquired
August 24, 2013
Publication Date
January 27, 2008
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Meeting Information
Meeting: AAS/AIAA Space Flight Mechanics Winter Meeting
Location: Galveston, TX
Country: United States
Start Date: January 27, 2008
End Date: January 31, 2008
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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