This paper introduces novel analytical guidance solutions for spacecraft relativemotion considering continuous, on-off thrust, and using Relative Orbit Elementsas a geometrical representation of the dynamics. The solutions providethe relative state vector at any given time, accommodating any thrust magnitudealong the three directions of the relative frame, as well as generic activationtimes and durations. Relative Orbit Elements geometrically interpret keyaspects of the relative motion, including for example, the relative ellipse size,and the evolution of its center in time. The new solutions provide the guidancedesigner with a direct visualization of the thrust effects on the relative motiongeometry, offering new possibilities for analytical guidance in the presence ofcontinuous thrust engines, such as low thrust engines on nano-spacecraft. Thepaper presents the analytical solutions, and tests their effectiveness using asample guidance thrust profile based on input-shaping, previously developedby one of the authors using classical Cartesian coordinates. The use of RelativeOrbit Elements shows substantial benefits and added simplicity with respect toCartesian-based approaches.
展开▼
