Maneuvering through solar wind using magnetic sails

Abstract

The current study evaluates the performance of magnetic sails as a function of the incoming velocity and flow direction. A particle model is employed for the simulation of multiple angle-velocity combinations for the incoming ion flow, leading to a relationship between the drag force and the sail properties. Apart from the drag force, the model is able to predict lift and side forces on the sail. The importance of the non-axial forces is evident when designing plane-change maneuvers within the solar system. Using the solar wind and the correct magnetic sail pitch angle, a change in the inclination of the orbital plane can be achieved. A study is therefore presented using a single-coil magnetic sail starting in the ecliptic plane and employing a bang–bang control for the pitch angle. An increase of more than 30°in the orbital inclination is achieved within a 20 year time-frame.