Lobe Dynamics

Author: Tianjiang Shuo

Website: https://cislunarspace.cn

Definition

A theory and method for analyzing material transport between different regions of phase space, based on the lobe structures enclosed by stable and unstable manifolds of saddle points on Poincare sections. Lobes are phase space regions bounded by the stable and unstable manifolds of saddle points; their temporal evolution (forward and backward iteration) precisely characterizes transport pathways and timescales through the chaotic sea. The paper applies this method to the Sun-Jupiter PCR3BP, tracing lobe evolution from the Mars region to the Earth region to find long-time natural transport orbits from Mars to Earth.

Application Value

Lobe dynamics is a precise tool for analyzing material transport in chaotic systems. In solar system interplanetary transfer missions, this method can identify natural transport channels utilizing planetary gravity assist, with transfer times reaching millions of years. By tracking lobe structures in phase space, orbital designers can determine which initial conditions spontaneously transport to target celestial body vicinity in the chaotic sea, enabling design of nearly-zero-propellant interplanetary transfer orbits. In cislunar space missions, lobe dynamics is equally applicable for analyzing particle transport characteristics near halo orbit regions, providing reference value for space debris protection and spacecraft collision early warning.

References

  • Ren et al. - 2011 - On the mechanisms of natural transport in the solar system