Publisher:Pasadena, CA: Jet Propulsion Laboratory, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, 2017
Citation:2017 AAS/AIAA Astrodynamics Specialist Conference, Stevenson, Washington, August 20-24, 2017
Abstract:
Planning the logistics of multiple launches to support a Mars surface expedition requires good trajectory design tools. Traditional ballistic transfers are well characterized by performance maps known as pork-chop plots. However, the transportation of cargo can benefit from the use of low-thrust solar electric propulsion, both in terms of mass delivered and the flexibility of flight durations and dates. This paper describes the design and use of bacon plots (the low-thrust analog to pork-chop plots) and their application to the architectural design of a human Mars surface expedition.