Studies in Astronautics, Volume 1: Optimal Space Trajectories focuses on the concept of optimal transfer and the problem of optimal space trajectories. It examines the relative performances of the various propulsion systems (classical and electrical propulsions) and their optimization (optimal mass breakdown), along with parametric and functional optimizations and optimal transfers in an arbitrary, uniform, and central gravitational field. Organized into 13 chapters, this volume begins with an overview of optimal transfer and the modeling of propulsion systems. It then discusses the Hohmann transfer, the Hoelker and Silber bi-elliptical transfer, and the deficiencies of parametric optimization. The book explains the canonical transformation, optimization of the thrust law using the Maximum Principle, and optimal orbit corrections. The time-free orbital transfers and time-fixed orbital transfers and rendezvous are also discussed. Moreover, this volume explains the classical high-thrust and electric low-thrust propulsion systems and rendezvous between two planets. This book is written primarily for engineers who specialize in aerospace mechanics and want to pursue a career in the space industry or space research. It also introduces students to the different aspects of the problem of optimal space trajectories.

This book consolidates decades of knowledge on space flight navigation theory, which has thus far been spread across various research articles. By gathering this research into a single text, it will be more accessible to students curious about the study of space flight navigation. Books on optimal control theory and orbital mechanics have not adequately explored the field of space flight navigation theory until this point. The opening chapters introduce essential concepts within optimal control theory, such as the optimization of static systems, special boundary conditions, and dynamic equality constraints. An analytical approach is focused on throughout, as opposed to computational. The result is a book that emphasizes simplicity and practicability, which makes it accessible and engaging. This holds true in later chapters that involve orbital mechanics, two-body maneuvers, bounded inputs, and flight in non-spherical gravity fields. The intended audience is primarily upper-undergraduate students, graduate students, and researchers of aerospace, mechanical, and/or electrical engineering. It will be especially valuable to those with interests in spacecraft dynamics and control. Readers should be familiar with basic dynamics and modern control theory. Additionally, a knowledge of linear algebra, variational methods, and ordinary differential equations is recommended.

Writing a comprehensive book on satellite communications requires the com mand of many technical disciplines and the availability of up-to-date information on international recommendations, system architectures, and equipment stand ards. It is therefore necessary to involve many authors, each possessing a good level of knowledge in a particular discipline. The problem of using a coherent and unambiguous set of definitions and basic terms has been solved by including in the book all the background information needed for understanding satellite communication systems, without any major reference to other textbooks specializing in particular disciplines. The obvious consequence of this approach has been the large size of the book, with the advantages, however, of practically complete independence from other books, more systematic discussion of the subject matter, and better readability. After the required background information, emphasis has been placed on the discussion of techniques and system design criteria rather than on specific equipment implementation or description of particular systems. The book may be divided in five parts as follows: • The first five chapters provide most of the required background information. • Chapter 6 is an introductory outline of satellite communication systems. • Chapters 7 to 13 deal with the various aspects of technical system design. • Chapter 14 discusses system economics. • Chapter 15 provides a brief insight into some foreseeable future develop ments of satellite communications.

This is a long-overdue volume dedicated to space trajectory optimization. Interest in the subject has grown, as space missions of increasing levels of sophistication, complexity, and scientific return - hardly imaginable in the 1960s - have been designed and flown. Although the basic tools of optimization theory remain an accepted canon, there has been a revolution in the manner in which they are applied and in the development of numerical optimization. This volume purposely includes a variety of both analytical and numerical approaches to trajectory optimization. The choice of authors has been guided by the editor's intention to assemble the most expert and active researchers in the various specialities presented. The authors were given considerable freedom to choose their subjects, and although this may yield a somewhat eclectic volume, it also yields chapters written with palpable enthusiasm and relevance to contemporary problems.

This graduate textbook on optimal spacecraft trajectories demonstrates the theory and applications of using the minimum amount of propellant possible to reach a target destination. The author aims to produce the only comprehensive treatment of various aspects of this topic. It includes problems at the ends of the chapters and some of the appendices. But it is also suitable as a scholarly reference book as it includes recent research from the author and his colleagues.