Optimizing orbits for TianQin

TL;DR

This paper develops combined orbit optimization methods for the TianQin gravitational-wave observatory to ensure 5-year stability and discusses long-term drift mitigation through stable orbit configurations.

Contribution

It introduces novel combined orbit optimization techniques and proposes stable orbit configurations to maintain TianQin's stability over five years.

Findings

Optimized orbits meet 5-year stability requirements.

Identified stable orbits with specific pointings along the lunar orbital plane.

Discussed long-term drift effects and mitigation strategies.

Abstract

TianQin is a geocentric space-based gravitational-wave observatory mission consisting of three drag-free controlled satellites in an equilateral triangle with an orbital radius of $ 10^{5}$ km. The constellation faces the white-dwarf binary RX J0806.3+1527 located slightly below the ecliptic plane, and is subject to gravitational perturbations that can distort the formation. In this study, we present combined methods to optimize the TianQin orbits so that a set of 5-year stability requirements can be met. Moreover, we discuss slow long-term drift of the detector pointing due to orbital precession, and put forward stable orbits with six other pointings along the lunar orbital plane. Some implications of the findings are pointed out.