The distance from the Moon's center to the closest point of a transfer trajectory or invariant manifold

Author: Tianjiang Shuo

Website: https://cislunarspace.cn

Definition

The selenocentric distance at the closest approach point of a transfer trajectory or invariant manifold. This parameter is the central constraint in transfer trajectory design: the target value is determined by the lunar orbital altitude plus the lunar radius (e.g., 1837.4 km for a 100 km lunar orbit). Whether the manifold's minimum selenocentric distance matches the target determines whether a zero-cost transfer is possible or impulse maneuvers are needed.

Application Value

This parameter plays a critical role in cislunar mission design, analysis, and control. During the orbital design phase, the associated dynamical characteristics can be exploited to optimize transfer trajectories. In navigation and control, it improves the precision and reliability of mission execution. In systems analysis, it aids in understanding complex multi-body dynamical behaviors and guiding mission concept development and risk assessment.

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  • Orbit Chain
  • Prograde Polar Orbit
  • Eccentricity/Inclination Vector Separation

References

  • Peng Kun et al. - 2016 - Halo Orbit Transfer Trajectory Design at Earth-Moon L2 Based on Invariant Manifolds
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Contributors: ouyangjiahong, Ou Yang Jiahong