Sensitivity Analysis of One-dimensional Descent Profiles for Low Altitude Lunar Landings
Open Access
- Author:
- Harmon, Jason Scott
- Area of Honors:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Degree:
- Bachelor of Science
- Document Type:
- Thesis
- Thesis Supervisors:
- David Bradley Spencer, Thesis Supervisor
Dr. Mark David Maughmer, Thesis Honors Advisor
Dr. George A Lesieutre, Faculty Reader - Keywords:
- Aerospace
Engineering
Lunar landing
Sensitivity analysis - Abstract:
- In order to find the optimal fuel-efficient way to descend from a low altitude orbit around the moon to the surface, a straight vertical drop to the surface will be modeled. This will set up a one-dimensional, two point boundary value problem that will be analyzed using optimization methods. Using basic propulsion and thrust equations, the thrust will be calculated at different times of the descent. This paper will analyze a descent with no thrusting as well as one with continuous and constant thrust. Using applied optimal control theory and inputting the differential equations into programming software, the optimal descent profile for the given thrust can then be analyzed. The variables for this feasible solution for the continuous burn will then be perturbed and the sensitivities of each will be analyzed. This analysis will be modeled similarly to the spacecraft that is being designed for the Penn State Lunar Lion project. The results from this analysis will then be used to determine the Lunar Lion’s optimal descent profile to the surface of the moon. In the future, the case of throttle-able or step-function thrust can be analyzed using similar methods. In addition, the problem will be expanded to include a horizontal velocity component to make it a two-dimensional descent trajectory.