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Direct integration methods of theN-body problem

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Abstract

A fourth-order polynomial method for the integration ofN-body systems is described in detail together with the computational algorithm. Most particles are treated efficiently by an individual time-step scheme but the calculation of close encounters and persistent binary orbits is rather time-consuming and is best performed by special techniques. A discussion is given of the Kustaanheimo-Stiefel regularization procedure which is used to integrate dominant two-body encounters as well as close binaries. Suitable decision-making parameters are introduced and a simple method is developed for regularizing an arbitrary number of simultaneous two-body encounters.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institute of Theoretical Astronomy, Cambridge, England

    S. J. Aarseth

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  1. S. J. Aarseth
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Aarseth, S.J. Direct integration methods of theN-body problem. Astrophys Space Sci 14, 118–132 (1971). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00649199

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00649199

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