Aeroballistic Capture at Mars: Modeling, Optimization, and Assessment

In this paper a novel paradigm for Mars missions is modeled, optimized, and assessed. This concept consists of maneuver that combines aerocapture ballistic capture upon arrival, labeled aeroballistic capture. The idea reducing the overall cost mass by exploiting interaction with planet atmosphere as well complex sun–Mars gravitational field. first formulated. then split into number phases, each them modeled mathematical means. problem stated using optimal control theory, solutions are sought. These specialized to four application cases. An assessment shows their superiority compared classical injection maneuvers when medium-to-high final orbits about targeted.