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Active TRL 2 (started at 2, targeting 3)
The proposed research will develop an algorithm and software implementation of a customized capability for onboard generation of the end-to-end, multi-phase trajectory from entry interface (EI) to termination of the powered descent, subject to any user-imposed operational and safety constraints and with the minimum propellant consumption. The technical approach is by a recently developed unified optimization theory, Hamiltonian programming method, the knotting technique and other numerical techniques tailored to the problem to make the algorithm more robust and fast. In addition, the particular physics of dynamics and characteristics of the optimal solution of the problem will be exploited for algorithm customization. The work will take two major steps. The first to apply the proposed methodology to the propellant-optimal powered descent problem. The product is a stand-alone algorithm and software that can be applied to powered descent guidance. On the basis of the lesson learned and experience gained, the second step is to develop the algorithm and software for the end-to-end multi-phase trajectory from EI to touchdown, including both atmospheric entry and powered descent phases in an integrated fashion.
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