Quasi-Circular Transfer

Author: Tianjiang Shuo

Website: https://cislunarspace.cn

Definition

A slow spiral transfer between near-circular orbits under low thrust. Because the thrust level is very low, the orbit remains nearly circular throughout the transfer, allowing Edelbaum's analytic equations to estimate the required velocity increment and transfer time without numerically integrating each revolution.

Application Value

Quasi-circular transfer changes orbit shape through multiple small maneuvers, suitable for orbit restructuring.

Related Concepts

• Variable Structure Sliding Mode Control
• Pontryagin Minimum Principle
• Error Function

References

• Kluever 1997 Optimal Earth-Moon Trajectories Using Combined Chemical-Electric Propulsion