6.3 Rendezvous Christopher James 3/30/2007 Physics 280 Christopher James 3/30/2007 Physics 280

Coplanar Rendezvous  The next case is that of coplanar rendezvous. In this situation, a Hohmann transfer is most often the minimum energy transfer. For transfers that require significantly less time than allowable with a Hohmann transfer, a non-tangential burn can be implemented at the cost of extra DV. The DV needed for a circular Hohmann transfer is found using the following equations………

COPLANAR RENDEZVOUS

Co-orbital Rendezvous

Hohmann Transfer  Assumptions:  Initial and final orbits are circular and coplanar  Engine burn is instantaneous  Approach:  Doubly tangent transfer ellipse: Minimum speed change – minimum burn – minimum fuel – minimum weight  Assumptions:  Initial and final orbits are circular and coplanar  Engine burn is instantaneous  Approach:  Doubly tangent transfer ellipse: Minimum speed change – minimum burn – minimum fuel – minimum weight

Transfer Time

The basic equations for rendezvous and proximity operations are well understood. The easiest is the co-orbital circular rendezvous scenario. The DV needed for rendezvous is dependent on the allowable time and is found using the following equations.