Use of Halo Orbits to Provide a Communication Link between Earth and Mars
Abstract
A communication network is proposed to provide continuous communication coverage between earth and Mars for multiple Mars missions by using orbits that can be computed as solutions to the elliptic restricted three-body problem. Such a communication network could alleviate the need and lower the cost significantly for complex and cumbersome communication systems on Martian exploration vehicles. This paper describes one type of network that could provide an effective means to implement such a communication system as a relay between earth and Mars. The preliminary design of the halo orbits, transfer trajectories, stationkeeping, and communication requirements (including data rates and power requirements) is summarized.
Recommended Citation
H. J. Pernicka et al., "Use of Halo Orbits to Provide a Communication Link between Earth and Mars," Proceedings of the 1992 AIAA/AAS Astrodynamics Conference (1992, Hilton Head, SC), American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), Aug 1992.
Meeting Name
1992 AIAA/AAS Astrodynamics Conference (1992: Aug. 10-12, Hilton Head, SC)
Department(s)
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Keywords and Phrases
Communication Networks; Communication Satellites; Interplanetary Communication; Lagrangian Equilibrium Points; Orbits; Three Body Problem; Equations of Motion; Stationkeeping; Transfer Orbits
Document Type
Article - Conference proceedings
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 1992 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), All rights reserved.
Publication Date
12 Aug 1992
