Stability Analysis of Coupled Orbit–Attitude Dynamics Around Asteroids Using Finite-Time Lyapunov Exponents

摘要

This paper investigates coupled orbit-attitude dynamics around asteroids subject to solar radiation pressure and gravity irregularities. The solutions of sun-synchronous orbits with sun-tracking attitude motion are analytically derived, and their stability is evaluated by applying linearization and averaging. To validate the analytical solutions, numerical simulations are performed based on nonlinear coupled orbit-attitude equations of motion. In addition, the nonlinear stability of such coupled motion is analyzed using finite-time Lyapunov exponents. It is demonstrated that the sun-synchronous orbit-attitude coupled motions exhibit long-term stability under certain conditions, and thus, these motions are promising options for asteroid missions.