Magnetour: Surfing planetary systems on electromagnetic and multi-body gravity fields. (September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lantoine, Gregory; Russell, Ryan P.; Anderson, Rodney L.; Garrett, Henry B.
• Is Part Of: Acta astronautica. Volume 138(2017)
• Page Start: 543
• Page End: 558
• Publication Date: 2017-09
• Subjects: Electrodynamic tether -- Circular restricted three-body problem -- Multi-moon tour -- Propellantless propulsion -- Jupiter; Astronautics -- Periodicals; Outer space -- Exploration -- Periodicals; Astronautics; Periodicals; 629.405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.actaastro.2016.12.014
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0094-5765

Abstract

Abstract: A comprehensive tour of the complex outer planet systems is a central goal in space science. However, orbiting multiple moons of the same planet would be extremely prohibitive using traditional propulsion and power technologies. In this paper, a new mission concept, named Magnetour, is presented to facilitate the exploration of outer planet systems and address both power and propulsion challenges. This approach would enable a single spacecraft to orbit and travel between multiple moons of an outer planet, without significant propellant or onboard power source. To achieve this free-lunch 'Grand Tour', Magnetour exploits the unexplored combination of magnetic and multi-body gravitational fields of planetary systems, with a unique focus on using a bare electrodynamic tether for power and propulsion. Preliminary results indicate that the Magnetour concept is sound and is potentially highly promising at Jupiter. Highlights: A propellantless concept is presented to facilitate the exploration of Jovian moons. The powerful magnetic and multi-body gravity fields of Jupiter are leveraged. Bare electrodynamic tethers are used for propulsion and power. The cost of inserting and orbiting the moons is reduced via weakly captured orbits. Heteroclinic connections are considered for science observations of the moons.