An Analytical 3D Shape-Based Algorithm Based on Orbits Interpolation for Multi-Revolutions Low-Thrust Trajectory Optimization with Eclipses And Perturbations

A novel 3-dimensional shape based algorithm is proposed in order to extend the domain of analytical solutions to planeto-centric mission scenarios, in which hundreds or thousands of revolutions are required. Due to the strong physical meaning of the shape the method outputs a trajectory close to the real optimal solution. Practical mission constraints are easily formalized, such as maximum thrust threshold and eclipses; moreover, relevant perturbations effects can be considered; free and fixed time of flight are manageable as well. The approach is almost completely analytic, beneficial to significantly lower the computational load, well suited for complex mission scenarios near optimal solutions fast detection.