Short-Path Transfer Orbit

Author: Tianjiang Shuo

Website: https://cislunarspace.cn

Definition

One of two solution categories in the Lambert problem. The arc angle from departure to arrival is less than 180 degrees, with both foci on the same side of the chord. For the same semimajor axis, the short-path orbit has a shorter flight time. In the auxiliary transfer problem, the orbit with minimum velocity increment is always a short-path orbit. In fixed-time fixed-endpoint transfers, the short-path solution is typically the preferred candidate.

Application Value

This term在cislunar space missions中has important application value. In orbit design, it can be used foroptimizing transfer trajectories, reducing mission fuel consumption. In attitude control and dynamics analysis, it helps understandthe motion characteristics of spacecraft in complex gravitational fields, providing theoretical support for mission planning. In navigation and orbit determination, methods based on this termcan improve orbit prediction accuracy, supporting the development of autonomous navigation algorithms.

Related Concepts

• DRO-to-Earth-Orbit Transfer
• Maximum Excursion Distance
• Pseudo-Equinoctial Orbital Elements
• Conic Orbit

References

• Shen和Tsiotras - 2003 - Optimal two-impulse rendezvous using multiple-revolution lambert solutions