Costate

Author: Tianjiang Shuo

Website: https://cislunarspace.cn

Definition

Variables dual to the state variables in optimal control theory, analogous to Lagrange multipliers. Their sensitivity to initial values is the main challenge of indirect methods.

Application Value

在轨道控制律设计中，该方法通过优化推力方向和大小实现燃料消耗最小化，是深空任务的核心技术。

Related Concepts

• Piecewise Polynomial Control
• Reference Ellipsoid
• Low-Thrust Propulsion
• Primer vector

References

• Zhang et al. - 2025 - Smoothing technique for indirect low-thrust trajectory optimization in cislunar space