Choice of mission trajectory plans and conceptual design of electrical propulsion module for launching payloads into circumterrestrial orbits

Abstract

The problem of increasing the efficiency of transport operations in space is currently coming to the fore. In the context of this problem, we investigated the possibility of developing a space transportation system including a chemical upper stage and an electric propulsion transport module capable of performing a specified range of space maneuvers. Electric propulsion module design was carried out for a given range of target orbits and payload mass with the provision of restrictions on the flight time. Calculation of the ballistic characteristics of the flight is performed and an optimal program of placing a low-thrust vehicle into orbit is defined. A procedure for defining the design parameters of a space transportation system and its conceptual design is proposed. The conceptual design of the space transportation system and the electric propulsion module were formed in the PTC Creo Parametric environment. On the basis of the results of the work, it can be concluded that it is possible to create a space transportation system with given parameters.

Keywords

• space transportation system
• combined propulsion system
• chemical upper stage
• electric propulsion module