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Variational problems in space flight mechanics

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Abstract

The effect of weight limitations on the parameters of the optimum motion of a variable-mass body in a gravitational field is considered. An analysis is made of the optimum motion for three possible propulsion systems: limited exit velocity, limited power, and limited thrust. Solutions are presented for some typical cases. The problems of selecting the optimum weight parameters, finding the optimum propulsion system controls, and determining the optimum trajectory are solved simultaneously.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Moscow Physical-Technical Institute, Moscow, USSR

    G. L. Grodzovsky (Professor)

  2. Referativnyi Zhurnal, Mekhanika, Academy of Sciences of the USSR, Moscow, USSR

    G. L. Grodzovsky (Professor)

Authors
  1. G. L. Grodzovsky
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Communicated by A. I. Lurie

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Grodzovsky, G.L. Variational problems in space flight mechanics. J Optim Theory Appl 4, 44–66 (1969). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00928716

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00928716

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