Bang-off-Bang Thrust Profile

Author: Tianjiang Shuo

Website: https://cislunarspace.cn

Definition

The characteristic thrust profile of fuel-optimal low-thrust transfers. The engine alternates between maximum thrust (bang, throttle = 1) and shutdown (off, throttle = 0), forming a sequence of alternating thrust and coast arcs. Unlike minimum-time transfers that maintain full thrust throughout, bang-off-bang saves fuel by coasting at appropriate times, with switching times determined by the sign of the switching function.

Application Value

This concept plays an important role in trajectory optimization and mission planning applications.

References

  • Singh et al., 2021
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Contributors: ouyangjiahong, Ou Yang Jiahong