Team theAntipodes: Solution Methodology for GTOC11

TL;DR

This paper details the solution methodology used by team theAntipodes for GTOC11, combining combinatorial optimization, interpolation of transfer opportunities, and trajectory refinement to achieve third place with a high score.

Contribution

The paper introduces a comprehensive multi-block approach integrating optimization, interpolation, and refinement for complex trajectory design in GTOC11.

Findings

Achieved third place with a score of 5,992.

Developed a novel combination of combinatorial and interpolation methods.

Enhanced trajectory accuracy with deep-space maneuvers.

Abstract

This paper presents the solution approach developed by the team "theAntipodes" for the 11th Global Trajectory Optimization Competition (GTOC11). The approach consists of four main blocks: 1) mothership chain generation, 2) rendezvous table generation, 3) the dispatcher, and 4) the refinement. Blocks 1 and 3 are purely combinatorial optimization problems that select the asteroids to visit and allocate them to the Dyson ring stations. The rendezvous table generation involves interpolating time-optimal transfers to find all transfer opportunities between selected asteroids and the ring stations. The dispatcher uses the data stored in the table and allocates the asteroids to the Dyson ring stations optimally. The refinement ensures each rendezvous trajectory meets the problem accuracy constraints and introduces deep-space maneuvers to the mothership transfers. We provide the details of our solution that, with a score of 5,992, was worth 3rd place.