High-order polynomial continuation method for trajectory design in non-Keplerian environments

Orbit generation in non-Keplerian environments poses some challenges related to the complex dynamical nature in which such trajectory exist. The absence of a parametric representation of the orbits requires an iterative approach to define families. Simple methods exist to fulfill such task, however, they are based on local information and prone to convergence/speed problems. A polynomial-based scheme is proposed to improve the search of the solutions along the orbital families, enhancing the overall speed of the process, while avoiding convergence issues. The scheme is tested in the framework of Earth–Moon system, and performances are discussed and compared to classical approaches.