Table of Contents
What are attributes of a Hohmann transfer?
A Hohmann Transfer is a two-impulse elliptical transfer between two co-planar circular orbits. The transfer itself consists of an elliptical orbit with a perigee at the inner orbit and an apogee at the outer orbit.
Which energy efficient maneuver is commonly used to move from one orbit to another?
A Hohmann Transfer is an orbital maneuver that transfers a satellite or spacecraft from one circular orbit to another. It was invented by a German scientist in 1925 and is the most fuel efficient way to get from one circular orbit to another circular orbit.
What is the Hohmann transfer window?
In orbital mechanics, the Hohmann transfer orbit (/ˈhoʊmən/) is an elliptical orbit used to transfer between two circular orbits of different radii around a central body in the same plane. Space missions using a Hohmann transfer must wait for this required alignment to occur, which opens a so-called launch window.
What is the major axis of the Hohmann orbit in astronomical units AU )?
Earth is, on average, 1 astronomical unit (AU) from the sun. Mars is, on average, 1.52 AUs from the sun. The major axis of the Hohmann transfer orbit is represented by 2a.
How do satellites maneuver in orbit?
A maneuver is performed using the satellite’s propulsion subsystem to fire thrusters and bring about a change in the orbital elements. A maneuver may involve one or more burns. Orbit raising maneuver – increases the semi-major axis.
What should I know about the Hohmann transfer?
The Hohmann Transfer consists of two circular orbits and one elliptical orbit. For circular orbits students should know: Discuss the radius of the orbit with students. Is the radius constant or does it change and why? Students need to understand the difference between speed and velocity.
What are the three relevant orbits of a Hohmann transfer?
The three relevant orbits of a Hohmann transfer from a lower orbit to a higher one: the orbit of the departure body (1), the destination body (3), and the Hohmann trajectory which connects the two (2).
What is the difference between Hohmann and ballistic capture?
Rather than targeting a specific rendezvous location as occurs with the Hohmann transfer, the concept of ballistic capture, or low-energy transfer, involves placing the spacecraft ahead of the target in a similar orbit and slightly slower speed, then waiting for the target to catch up and draw the spacecraft into its gravitational field.
Can a modified Hohmann type I trajectory be used on Mars?
Proposed Mars mission consisting of a modified Hohmann/Type-I Trajectory en route to Mars (blue line) followed by a Venus-assisted return. A planet or other astronomical object can accelerate or redirect the trajectory of a passing spacecraft without the use of additional propellant.