Footprint Problem with Angle of Attack Optimization for High Lifting Reentry Vehicle

Abstract

A formal analysis to footprint problem with effects of angle of attack (AOA) is presented. First a flexible and rapid standardized method for footprint generation is developed. Zero bank angle control strategy and the maximum crossrange method are used to obtain virtual target set; afterward, closed-loop bank angle guidance law is used to find footprint by solving closest approach problem for each element in virtual target set. Then based on quasi-equilibrium glide condition, the typical inequality reentry trajectory constraints are converted to angle of attack lower boundary constraint. Constrained by the lower boundary, an original and practical angle of attack parametric method is proposed. By using parametric angle of attack profile, optimization algorithm for angle of attack is designed and the impact of angle of attack to footprint is discussed. Simulations with different angle of attack profiles are presented to demonstrate the performance of the proposed footprint solution method and validity of optimal algorithm.