Difference between revisions of "Low energy trajectories"

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Cargo could be inserted into '''low-energy trajectories'''. These trajectories will take longer then current Hohmann transfer orbits, but will save propellant and thus allow more payload.  
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Cargo could be inserted into '''low-energy trajectories'''. These trajectories will take longer then current [[Hohmann transfer orbit|Hohmann transfer orbits]], but will save [[propellant]] and thus allow more payload.  
 
Low cost of transport will be vital in [[Unmanned setup of a whole settlement|setting up a colony]] and in resupplying a [[semi-autonomous colony]].
 
Low cost of transport will be vital in [[Unmanned setup of a whole settlement|setting up a colony]] and in resupplying a [[semi-autonomous colony]].
  
  
 
== Methods ==
 
== Methods ==
*Bi-elliptic transfers
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*[[Bi-elliptic transfer|Bi-elliptic transfers]]
 
*The [http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interplanetary_Transport_Network Interplanetary Transport Network]
 
*The [http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interplanetary_Transport_Network Interplanetary Transport Network]
*Using ion thrusters/solar sails/plasma sails
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*Using [[ion thrusters]]/[[solar sails]]/[[plasma sails]]
  
  
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[[category:Technology]]
 
[[category:Technology]]
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[[category:Orbital Mechanics]]

Revision as of 11:49, 27 December 2008

Cargo could be inserted into low-energy trajectories. These trajectories will take longer then current Hohmann transfer orbits, but will save propellant and thus allow more payload. Low cost of transport will be vital in setting up a colony and in resupplying a semi-autonomous colony.


Methods


Disadvantages

  • Such trajectories will take much longer then Hohmann transfers
  • This means cargo will be exposed to the harsh conditions of space for a longer period of time. New and ingenious methods will be needed to solve this.