GEO Deorbiting Strategy

Author: Tianjiang Shuo

Website: https://cislunarspace.cn

Definition

A strategy for driving end-of-life geostationary satellites into the lunar region for permanent disposal using low-energy cislunar transfer trajectories. The total trajectory comprises three segments: low-thrust from GEO to the transfer orbit, free-flying low-energy transfer, and low-thrust into the lunar region until the neck closes. An alternative to graveyard orbits that alleviates GEO debris congestion.

Application Value

In orbital design and transfer trajectory optimization, this method is used to determine optimal transfer timing and orbital geometry, minimizing propellant consumption or flight time. Feasible orbital solutions satisfying mission constraints can be obtained through numerical simulation and iterative optimization.

References

  • Liang et al. 2016
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Contributors: ouyangjiahong, Ou Yang Jiahong