Trade space visualization applied to Lambert׳s Problem for elliptical insertion orbits

Abstract

This paper investigates the solution of Lambert׳s Problem for targets in elliptical orbits. A mission design software framework to determine the optimal interplanetary trajectory and final capture orbit based on mission constraints and requirements between a departure and arrival body has been developed. Integration of a trade space visualization tool, such as the Applied Research Laboratory Trade Space Visualizer software permits a mission designer to visually inspect the multi-dimensional trade space and investigate regions of feasible trajectories. This analysis process can provide a mission designer with the capability to reduce the amount of time needed to design interplanetary trajectories by reducing the number of feasible solutions that would need to be investigated.