Abstract
We investigate the potential of conducting interesting gravitational science experiments with LISA Pathfinder, by executing well defined de-orbiting manoeuvres following the nominal mission. Preliminary work suggests that the residual control authority of the micropropulsion system is sufficient to follow trajectories that cross the region surrounding the Sun-Earth saddle point, and also include one or multiple Earth flybys. Crossing the saddle point region may allow tests of Modified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND), while the flybys may potentially shed some light on the so-called flyby anomaly. We present some sample trajectories and discuss the limitations of the current model. Finally, we discuss the work required to take these ideas from the proof of principle presented here, to a concrete proposal for an extended mission.
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