The cislunar polygonal-like periodic orbit: Construction, transition and its application

- Periodicity conditions PLPOs are derived analytically;
- The critical states between non-transit and transit are demonstrated;
- A cislunar in-orbit infrastructure is proposed and constructed.

In this paper, we consider a family of periodic orbits in certain resonance with respect to the secondary, identified as polygonal-like periodic orbit (abbr. PLPO) due to their geometrical characteristic. With lunar gravity ignored, PLPOs can be constructed based on resonant orbits, of which the initial condition is parameterized by four Kepler elements. Firstly, PLPOs are constructed in the Earth-Moon system by deriving periodicity condition analytically utilizing Hori-Lie perturbation method. The periodicity condition is expressed by three modified Kepler elements, i.e., semi-major axis, eccentricity and the argument of perigee. Subsequently, the transition of PLPOs as well as the break of frozen tori is illuminated by Poincaré section demonstrating the critical states between non-transit and transit and the break of frozen tori in detail. Finally, a cislunar in-orbit infrastructure, named as “parking apron” system is proposed based on the periodicity condition and transition of PLPOs, supporting supply and crew transportation. Aiming at a specific 5:2 PLPO, the Hohmann transfers from 200 km low Earth orbit to the PLPO are designed. The fuel consumption and TOF for Hohmann transfer segments and orbital maneuvers are evaluated.