Transfers between moons with escape and capture patterns via Lyapunov exponent maps

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel method combining Lyapunov exponent maps with the MMAT technique to efficiently design low-energy, direct moon-to-moon transfers, including capture and landing maneuvers, within the circular restricted three-body problem.

Contribution

It presents an innovative approach that integrates Lyapunov exponent maps with the MMAT method for improved trajectory design between moons.

Findings

Effective design of moon-to-moon transfers demonstrated

Method accommodates capture, landing, and transit patterns

Application to Ganymede and Europa transfers showcased

Abstract

This contribution focuses on the design of low-energy transfers between planetary moons and presents an efficient technique to compute trajectories characterized by desirable behaviors in the vicinities of the departure and destination bodies. The method utilizes finite-time Lyapunov exponent maps in combination with the Moon-to-Moon Analytical Transfer (MMAT) method previously proposed by the authors. The integration of these two components facilitates the design of direct transfers between moons within the context of the circular restricted three-body problem, and allows the inclusion of a variety of trajectory patterns, such as captures, landings, transits and takeoffs, at the two ends of a transfer. The foundations and properties of the technique are illustrated through an application based on impulsive direct transfers between Ganymede and Europa. However, the methodology can be employed to assist in the design of more complex mission scenarios, such as moon tours.