Abstract

In this seminar, Donna Jennings will introduce the patched-conic method. The pathed-conic method is an important preliminary mission design tool used to simplify calculations for computing a spacecraft trajectory in a multi-body environment. The method reduces a complicated n-body problem into multiple two-body problems using Keplerian orbits. The sequence of Keplerian orbits is then “patched” together to form an end-to-end trajectory. This technique is widely used for interplanetary trajectory design and for determining Earth-to-Moon trajectories. After showing a simple example demonstrating the method, Ms. Jennings will illustrate how the approach can be expanded using “Pork Chop” plots to formulate a full preliminary mission design scenario that includes important implications involving launch/arrival periods, launch vehicle selection, and spacecraft dry mass allocations. A brief description of planetary flybys will also be provided.

Biography

Donna Jennings received her bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering from Missouri University of Science and Technology in May 2016 and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering at Missouri S&T. Donna Jennings has served as the instructor of record for a junior-level astrodynamics course since 2021. She is a 2020 Zonta International Amelia Earhart Fellow and was nominated by Missouri S&T for the MAGS 2023 Excellence in Teaching Award. Her areas of interest include small satellites, astrodynamics, libration point orbits and spaceflight in general.