Trajectory of spacecraft with photonic laser propulsion in the two-body problem

The photonic laser propulsion (PLP) system can produce continuous and constant thrust. This paper reviews its basics and then studies its application in the two-body interplanetary trajectory. This study also derives the equations of motion (EOM) for a spacecraft in an inertial frame and rotational frame for the two-body problem, and uses the Jacobi integral to investigate the spatial restrictions on trajectory. This study proposes a constraint on the smallest thrust at the launching stage, and finds the in-plane and out-of-plane equilibria. Numerical simulations confirm the validity of the derivations. The results of this paper are directly applicable to future PLP thrust missions, and particularly interplanetary travel.

► First paper to study trajectories of spacecraft with photonic laser propulsion. ► The EOM are derived under the two-body problem assumption. ► Jacobi integral is introduced to analyze spatial restrictions to the trajectory. ► Constraints on the smallest propulsion and system equilibria are found. ► Applications to potential space missions are simulated and shown feasible.