Initial Guess

Author: Tianjiang Shuo

Website: https://cislunarspace.cn

Definition

The initial values provided for variables when iteratively solving nonlinear programming or optimal control problems. Direct collocation methods have some robustness to initial guesses, but low-thrust trajectory problems are highly nonlinear with multiple local optima, requiring physically meaningful initial guesses. The paper uses a four-step construction: first integrate assuming posigrade thrust to determine phase 1 state, then integrate backward to determine phase 3 state, solve Lambert's problem to connect the two phases, and finally fill the mesh with nodes equidistributed in true anomaly.

Application Value

This concept is essential for understanding motion characteristics in orbital design and control, and plays a vital role in mission success.

  • Minimum Norm Solution
  • Rigid Body Dynamics
  • Variable-Size Design Space, VSDS
  • Analytical Gradient

References

  • Betts and Erb, 2003, Optimal low thrust trajectories to the moon
  • Spreen 2021
  • Conway - 2010 - Spacecraft trajectory optimization
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Contributors: ouyangjiahong, Ou Yang Jiahong