Abstract
A diffractive sail represents an advancement in solar sailing technology, capable of generating tangential radiation pressure force when oriented towards the sun. This unique property allows for varied radiation pressure distributions, making it a potential candidate for complex space missions. This paper delves into the transfer performance of the sun-facing diffractive solar sail in a solar polar imager mission.We establish both the radiation pressure force model and the time-optimal control problem specific to the sun-facing diffractive solar sail in interplanetary transfers. Applying an indirect method and a combined approach of parameter optimization with the direct method, we explore how different diffractive angles and acceleration capacities affect transfer times. This research offers insights to the design and fabrication of thin novel optical metamaterial films that efficiently diffract light at appropriate angles for potential solar sails in the solar polar imager mission. Compared with reflective sails, the diffractive sail demonstrates remarkable transfer efficiency and simplicity in attitude control, making it a more suitable choice in the solar polar imager mission.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
