Uncertain Lambert Problem: A Probabilistic Approach

Abstract

A complete solution to the uncertain Lambert problem is considered in this paper. While the deterministic Lambert problem considers the two point boundary value problem of the two body problem with a fixed transfer time, its uncertain counterpart is shown to be related to the propagation of uncertainty from a set of initial conditions. In contrast to the linearized solutions of the uncertain Lambert problem associated with a particular solution, our paper outlines a numerical process to characterize the non-Gaussian uncertainty associated with all solutions. Applications of solutions to the uncertain Lambert problem are detailed using representative examples.