Rendezvous and Proximity Operations in Low Lunar Orbit:

 


This scenario shows a few simple rendezvous and proximity operations maneuvers in Lunar Orbit using the STK/Astrogator module.  Two spacecraft, represented by models of the Apollo Command Service Module (CSM) and Lunar Excursion Module (LEM),  start off docked in a 110 km, circular Lunar orbit.  After an hour, the CSM backs away 200 meters from the LEM along the ‘VBar’ (the inertial velocity vector of the LEM).  The CSM stays on the VBar, rather than drifting off of it (as would be the natural tendency) by using STK/Astrogator auto-sequences that trigger adjustment maneuvers whenever the vehicle strays from the VBar.

 

After a 20 minute coast, the CSM transfers to an intermediate elliptical orbit to move back 1 km in the orbit, and then transfers back to the original orbit to maintain position.  (These sorts of transitions are often referred to as Clohessy-Wiltshire, or CW ‘Hops’).  The CSM holds there for 20 minutes and then makes another CW hop to 10 km back.    Next the CSM ‘Hops’ back to the -2 km point, and then drives in along the VBar to a final docking using Astrogator auto-sequences.  For more information about this and other Astrogator scenarios, please visit http://www.astrogatorsguild.com.


To watch this sequence of events unfold, click Start in the animation tool bar.

Required STK Modules

STK
STK/Astrogator
STK/Attitude
STK/Advanced Visualization Option


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