Nonlinear simulation of solar sail spacecraft guided motion for near-Earth object exploration

Abstract

This paper outlines the nonlinear flight simulation of a research solar sail spacecraft. The unique features of a solar sail spacecraft construction are described. The mathematical motion model within the heliocentric system of coordinates for solar sail spacecraft is formulated. The special software for solar sail spacecraft flight simulation, which is developed on the basis of the formulated mathematical model, also described. The guided flight to the potentially hazardous asteroid of a solar sail spacecraft is simulated. The nonlinear simulation findings consist of flight trajectory, flight duration and dependency graphs of flight parameters against flight duration. The results demonstrate a capability to the use solar sailing technology for flight to a potentially hazardous asteroid.