Date of Award

11-1990

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Astronautical Engineering

Department

Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics

First Advisor

Rodney D. Bain, PhD

Abstract

This study investigated critical inclinations about the planet Mars. Averaged equations of motion were numerically integrated over a time span of ten Earth years for various inclinations, eccentricities, and perigee heights. Each orbit (i.e. set of initial conditions) produced a standard deviation of the variations in eccentricity (SDE) and inclination (SDI). These were calculated using a polynomial approximation to the variations. Surface plots of SDI and SDE vs the initial conditions are then examined to ascertain the critical inclinations.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GA-ENY-90D-8

DTIC Accession Number

ADA230613

Comments

The author's Vita page is omitted.

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