Mission Feasibility from Trajectory Optimization and the State Of Space Systems Research at The University Of Auckland

Abstract

New Zealand has recently become a space-faring nation, and so is at an exciting time, forming collaborations and deciding where its interests lie. The current state of space systems research at the University of Auckland, which focuses on inexpensive small satellites, is presented with an assessment of future missions based on trajectory optimization. The low-thrust capabilities of both old and novel electric propulsion systems place significant limitations on future missions, so limiting Δv will be the objective of trajectory optimization. Different methods of trajectory optimization will be compared for the various technologies available, and the feasibility of mission plans assessed.