Date of Award:

8-2024

Document Type:

Dissertation

Degree Name:

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department:

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Committee Chair(s)

David Geller

Committee

David Geller

Committee

Matthew Harris

Committee

Douglas Hunsaker

Committee

Tianyi He

Committee

Jonathan Black

Abstract

One common method for determining how to get from point A to point B is by finding the most fuel-efficient path. This is a common method for spacecraft trajectory designers also. Without any random or unexpected occurrences this path is called the deterministic optimal trajectory. Sometimes unexpected events happen that result in deviating from the most fuel-efficient path; while driving, you may encounter a detour. Naturally, we tend to return to the original fuel-efficient path and continue the journey. Similar deviations happen in space. The rocket delivering a spacecraft to orbit likely will not deliver exactly to the intended starting point of the most fuel-efficient path to the target. As a result, a mid-course correction is required to not miss the target which costs additional fuel. This research seeks to determine the most fuel-efficient path by optimizing the baseline maneuvers in addition to corrections when characterized sources of error exist. This is referred to as a robust optimal trajectory. To determine if the robust path is beneficial, this research compares the total cost of the optimal deterministic trajectory with corrections with the optimal robust trajectory and its associated corrections.

Checksum

cc9dcb29197c502daa1c44e8ba3923c6

Download

Share

COinS

Copyright for this work is retained by the student. If you have any questions regarding the inclusion of this work in the Digital Commons, please email us at .