Multi-Body Gravity and Spacecraft Mission Design

October 22, 2018 (Monday) 15:00 – 16:00

North Building N908, Mengminwei Science and Technology Building

KATHLEEN C. HOWELL

Hsu Lo Distinguished Professor of Aeronautics and Astronautics

Purdue University

Abstract

Spacecraft trajectories using the nonlinear effects of multiple bodies are increasingly required for key NASA missions. The n-body problem has been a focus of study by mathematicians for hundreds of years. Recently, engineers have begun to exploit the underlying dynamical structure to expand the options for mission design. However, they are hampered by increasing but still limited information, tools, and knowledgeable, experienced designers for these orbits. Modern computation and visualization tools aid significantly in increasing the mathematical and dynamical understanding of the behavior in these regions of space. This talk will discuss past and current development of the knowledge and tools for spacecraft mission design in a multi-body regime.

Speaker Biography

Professor Howell’s technical research focus is astrodynamics in complex gravitational environments. She has successfully applied these methodologies to numerous NASA missions. As a principal investigator, she has obtained numerous grants and received various awards related to her research program as well as in recognition as an engineering educator. Currently, the Editor-in-Chief for the AAS Journal of the Astronautical Sciences, she is also a member of other editorial boards. Professor Howell is a member of the NAE and AAAS as well as a Fellow of both AIAA and AAS. She is involved with various other organizations within the international aerospace and astrodynamics community.