Journey to The Planets
The Technology to Build a Spacefaring Civilization
- 2024
- Book
- Author
- Giancarlo Genta
- Book Series
- Space Technology Library
- Publisher
- Springer Nature Switzerland
About this book
This book gives an account, as little biased as possible, on human space missions beyond low Earth orbit in general, and specifically to the planets of the solar system. The importance of advanced propulsion is stressed and the mathematical methods needed to design missions based on them are described. The included computer code allows the user to assess the feasibility of the various missions using different propulsion systems and how advancements in propulsion can allow humankind to become a true spacefaring civilization.
As opposite to the majority of books dealing with mission design, where the subject is usually dealt with in a highly mathematical way, here an attempt is made to avoid as much as possible the mathematical complexities and to focus on the practical aspects of the design. However, the equations needed to make numerical analysis and simulations of the missions are described and discussed.
An original computer code is included in the book, and an appendix helps the reader to understand how to use it. The code is different from existing ones since its main aim is to be user friendly and to allow the user to make a preliminary design of interplanetary missions aimed to planets and their satellites, comets or asteroids.
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Table of Contents
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Frontmatter
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1. Introduction: Building a Spacefaring Civilization
Giancarlo GentaThis chapter delves into the history of space exploration, starting from the launch of the first artificial satellite in the late 1950s. It highlights the significance of the Moon as a crucial step towards establishing a multi-planetary civilization and the technological advancements required to achieve this goal. The text discusses the importance of international cooperation and the role of private companies in driving space exploration forward. It also explores the potential of the Moon as a resource-rich environment and the technological challenges that need to be overcome to establish a sustainable human presence on the lunar surface. Additionally, the chapter discusses the future of human space exploration, including the development of advanced propulsion technologies and the potential for human missions to Mars. The text provides a detailed overview of the current state of space exploration and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.AI Generated
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AbstractWe are living in what was dubbed the ’space age’, a term coined at the end of the 1950s, when the first artificial satellite was launched. Today going to space, although mostly only to Earth orbit, at least with automatic machines, is not only necessary for providing essential services and for performing science, but it is an activity whose economical importance is growing. -
2. The Solar System
Giancarlo GentaThe chapter begins by describing the elliptical motion of planets around the Sun, governed primarily by the Sun's gravitational pull. It then delves into the diverse characteristics of the planets, categorized into rocky and giant planets, and presents detailed tables of their properties. The historical Titius-Bode law is discussed, along with its modern relevance and limitations. The chapter also explores the complexities of the solar system, including dwarf planets and asteroids, and their orbits. Additionally, it discusses the synodic periods of planets and the intricacies of space navigation, providing a comprehensive overview of the solar system's dynamics.AI Generated
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AbstractThe motion of the planets of the solar system is complex but, if their mutual gravitational attraction is neglected and their orbits are assumed to be governed only by the attraction of the Sun, they would move along elliptical orbits. -
3. Propulsion for Interplanetary Journeys
Giancarlo GentaThe chapter 'Propulsion for Interplanetary Journeys' explores the critical aspects of propulsion systems for spacecraft traveling through the solar system. It begins by discussing the equation of motion for a spacecraft, considering the forces exerted by gravitational bodies and the thrust generated by propulsion systems. The text highlights the importance of efficient propellant use and the challenges of interplanetary navigation. It delves into various propulsion methods, including chemical propulsion, nuclear thermal propulsion, and electric propulsion. The chapter also discusses the forces acting on spacecraft due to external causes such as gravitational attraction, solar wind, and drag from interplanetary plasma. Additionally, it covers the internal forces generated by outgassing, electromagnetic emission, and other phenomena. The text provides a detailed analysis of the forces and their impact on the trajectory and performance of spacecraft, making it an essential read for professionals in the field of space exploration and aerospace engineering.AI Generated
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AbstractAlmost all spacecraft at present use propellant to produce a thrust to implement any change of velocity and the only propellantless propulsion envisaged is light or magnetic sails. Since the mass of the propellant which is carried on board is a large fraction of the initial mass to be carried in low Earth orbit (IMLEO) of any spacecraft and thus constitutes a large fraction of the cost of space missions. -
4. Point-to-Point Motion in Field-Free Space
Giancarlo GentaThe chapter examines the intricacies of point-to-point motion in field-free space, focusing on control strategies and interplanetary travel approximations. It begins with the concept of impulsive propulsion, where maximum acceleration and deceleration are applied to minimize travel time. The study then transitions to constant ejection velocity (CEV) operations, detailing the optimization of thrust and power for both high and low thrust systems. Variable ejection velocity (VEV) strategies are also explored, including unlimited and limited velocity scenarios, with a focus on maximizing payload mass and minimizing propellant consumption. The chapter concludes by discussing propellantless propulsion methods, such as ideal laser sails and hypothetical propellantless thrusters, offering a comprehensive overview of current and future propulsion technologies for space travel.AI Generated
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AbstractThe study of point to point motion in a field free space is quite interesting for several reasons. It supplies a very simple case which can be solved in closed form, allowing to understand the possible control strategies and, at the same time, in some cases can be used as a first approximation for interplanetary travel. It will be here studied in some detail. -
5. Leaving Earth
Giancarlo GentaThe chapter explores the intricate process of launching interplanetary missions from Earth, highlighting the significant cost and technical challenges involved in escaping Earth's gravitational well. It delves into various launch strategies, including the use of heavy-lift launchers and the potential of emerging technologies like reusable rockets and space elevators. The text also discusses the complexities of landing on other planets, comparing the different approaches for atmospheric and non-atmospheric worlds. Additionally, it examines the role of advanced propulsion systems and the advantages of assembling spacecraft in orbit. The chapter offers a detailed look at the cutting-edge technologies and strategies shaping the future of interplanetary exploration, making it an essential read for those interested in the latest developments in space science and engineering.AI Generated
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AbstractAt our present level of technology, all interplanetary journeys must start from the Earth surface, i.e. deep into the gravitational well of Earth, and are also concluded on the surface of Earth. Exiting from this gravitational well is one of the most difficult and costly phases of all interplanetary missions. A similar situation occurs in the return journey, which must start from the surface of the destination planet. Also the opposite maneuver, a safe entry, descent and landing on the destination planet, is difficult even if, in the case of planets with an atmosphere, aerodynamic forces may be of help in reducing the cost of this phase of the journey. The final phase, re-entry into the Earth atmosphere, is also a difficult, and even dangerous, maneuver. -
6. Interplanetary Travel: Impulsive Approximation
Giancarlo GentaThe chapter delves into the intricacies of interplanetary travel, focusing on the patched conics method and Hohmann transfer as primary techniques. It explores how to optimize trajectories for minimal energy expenditure and discusses the use of gravity assists and aerodynamic maneuvers to enhance efficiency. The text also provides practical examples and comparisons of different trajectory strategies, highlighting the trade-offs between mission duration, energy requirements, and technological feasibility. Additionally, it touches on the challenges and considerations for long-stay and short-stay missions, making it a valuable resource for professionals in the field of aerospace engineering and astronomy.AI Generated
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AbstractChemical rockets, and also nuclear thermal rockets, supply large thrusts for a short time: the simplest way to compute the trajectories which can be obtained using this type of propulsion is the so-called “patched conics approximation”, in which propulsive phases, reduced to instant changes of velocity, are alternated to phases in which the spacecraft proceeds under the effect of the gravitational attraction of the solar system bodies. Assuming that only one celestial body acts at a time, these coasting arches are conic sections. Idealized solutions obtained by assuming that planetary orbits are circular and coplanar, are first described; while more realistic solutions in which the departure and arrival planets follow elliptical and non-coplanar orbits, are then considered. -
7. Interplanetary Travel: Continuous Thrust
Giancarlo GentaThe chapter delves into the intricacies of interplanetary travel using continuous thrust propulsion systems, emphasizing the higher specific impulse of electric propulsion compared to thermal rockets. It discusses the trade-offs between ejection velocity and power requirements, and the need for long-duration thrust application. The design of trajectories and thrust profiles is explored, highlighting the use of indirect methods for optimization. Practical examples, such as an Earth-Mars journey, illustrate the application of these methods and the impact of specific impulse limitations. The chapter also introduces the concept of bacon plots for optimizing travel dates and durations, showcasing the comprehensive approach needed for interplanetary mission planning.AI Generated
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AbstractElectric propulsion is characterized by values of the specific impulse much higher than those typical of thermal (chemical or nuclear) rockets but produces much lower thrusts. This is obviated by using the thruster for long periods of time or even for the whole travel. The design of the trajectory must be thus integrated with that of the thrust profile and it is possible to obtain very good performance in this way, at the cost of much larger design complexity. -
8. Orbit to Orbit Travel: Continuous Thrust
Giancarlo GentaThe chapter delves into the optimization of spacecraft travel using continuous thrust, emphasizing the importance of considering the entire journey—from planetary escape to interplanetary travel and final capture. It compares impulsive and low-thrust escape maneuvers, highlighting the advantages of hybrid propulsion systems that combine nuclear and electric power. Additionally, the chapter explores the impact of radiation belts on mission design and introduces the concept of propellantless propulsion systems. Practical examples and detailed analyses make this chapter a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of interplanetary travel.AI Generated
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AbstractThe optimization of the spacecraft cannot however be performed considering only the interplanetary leg of the space travel: the optimization must take into account the whole journey, which is made by at least 3 phases: the acceleration around the starting planet, the interplanetary transfer and the braking around the destination planet. A low thrust spacecraft may start from a low orbit about the starting planet using its own thrusters, performing a spiral trajectory leading it outside the sphere of influence of the planet, or may use a booster to perform a quick escape from the starting orbit. The same can be done at arrival, with the added possibility of performing an aerodynamic maneuver, -
9. Trajectories in the Earth-Moon System
Giancarlo GentaThe chapter discusses the intricate nature of Earth-Moon trajectories, emphasizing the differences from interplanetary missions. It explores the use of low-thrust propulsion for cargo missions and the challenges of human travel to the Moon. The text delves into various trajectory types, including impulsive and low-thrust trajectories, and examines the advantages and limitations of each. It also covers advanced propulsion systems like nuclear electric propulsion and fusion rockets, highlighting their potential for future lunar missions. The chapter concludes with considerations on the regulatory and practical aspects of lunar orbits and the future of lunar exploration.AI Generated
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AbstractThe Moon is the closest celestial body and the easiest to reach. Traveling to the Moon is relatively easy even with present technology, as it is evidenced by the very fact that half a century ago the Apollo Missions carried 12 people on our satellite. Taking into account the advances in technology in general (non only space technology), today reaching the Moon is much easier and above all much less costly. However, the analysis of the missions in the Earth-Moon system is much more difficult than that of interplanetary missions, since the errors introduced by the restricted two-body problem are much larger and to obtain a good precision the restricted three body problem must be solved. To this a consideration must be added: low thrust propulsion, such as NEP or SEP (and even solar sails) may be expedient to decrease the cost of lunar missions, but imply an increase of the travel time except if very advanced power generators are used. With technologies predictable for the near or medium term future, low-thrust may be used only for slow cargo spacecraft but not to carry human beings to the Moon and back. -
10. Travelling Between Extrasolar Planets
Giancarlo GentaThe chapter 'Travelling Between Extrasolar Planets' delves into the complexities of interplanetary travel within extrasolar planetary systems, particularly those with multiple stars. It begins by comparing the complexity of these systems to our own solar system, highlighting the need for advanced navigation techniques. The author discusses the limitations of the restricted two-body assumption and the use of impulsive propulsion, emphasizing the need for boundary value problem solutions. Examples of hypothetical extrasolar systems are used to illustrate the challenges and potential solutions. The chapter also explores the use of continuous thrust and unlimited variable specific impulse (VEV) propulsion, providing detailed examples and trajectory analyses. The work underscores the importance of accounting for the gravitational influence of multiple stars and the need for advanced propulsion systems to overcome the challenges of long travel times and high energy requirements. This chapter is a must-read for those interested in the future of interstellar and interplanetary travel.AI Generated
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AbstractIf in the future humans will reach other stars, or better extrasolar planets, they will face the problem of travelling between the new planets. Many planetary systems are much more complex than the solar system, particularly in case their star is double or multiple, and there is a variety of possible cases. In most cases the restricted two body assumption cannot be used and even in case of impulsive propulsion the trajectories cannot be obtained in closed form. The problem of finding the impulsive trajectory can be reduced to the solution of a boundary value problem, as is the case for continuous thrust solved through indirect methods. A few examples for an hypothetical extrasolar system are dealt with, with the only aim of discussing possible way to tackle the problem of traveling between exoplanets. -
11. Conclusions
Giancarlo GentaThe chapter explores the resurgence of lunar exploration and colonization efforts, emphasizing the use of advanced technologies such as fully reusable spacecraft and nuclear power stations. It contrasts the current approach with the Apollo missions, highlighting the shift towards economically viable space activities. The text also discusses the potential of nuclear and fusion propulsion for interplanetary travel, underscoring the evolutionary nature of technological advancements in space exploration. Additionally, it touches on the role of private corporations and the potential for unexpected innovations to transform space travel. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of mastering solar system exploration as a precursor to interstellar travel, highlighting the need for a deep understanding of the universe and the development of new technologies based on this understanding.AI Generated
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AbstractAfter a hiatus of almost half a century, humankind is about to restart its way beyond low Earth orbit to return to the Moon on our way to the exploration and the colonization of the Solar System. To become a true spacefaring civilization we must acquire a new know-how in many fields of technology, but we do not need revolutionary advances in science or technological breakthroughs. -
Backmatter
- Title
- Journey to The Planets
- Author
-
Giancarlo Genta
- Copyright Year
- 2024
- Publisher
- Springer Nature Switzerland
- Electronic ISBN
- 978-3-031-57696-6
- Print ISBN
- 978-3-031-57695-9
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-57696-6
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