The Dynamical Characteristics of the Triangular Libration Points in Earth-Moon System and Their Applications

摘要

The triangular libration points L4 and L5 of the restrict three-body problem are in special locations, which compose equilateral triangles with the two primaries. They are stable not only in the linearized model but also under nonlinear perturbations if certain conditions are satisfied. Their applications in deep space exploration are prospective. This paper focuses on the sun-earth system and the earth-moon system, and discusses the stability of the triangular libration points and the possibility to locate a probe around them. Based on the acceptable region of motion during the spacecraft's lifetime, the initial deviations from these points (including position and speed) are calculated. Our research shows that it is nearly impossible to keep the spacecraft around these points without control due to the large perturbations from the fourth body (such as Sun). Station-keeping strategies are necessary during the lifetime of the spacecraft.