Astrodynamics and Control

Dear colleagues,

The symmetry of the solar system, particularly of the dynamic relations of celestial bodies in groups, has been known by astronomers since antiquity. Astrodynamics is the inheritor of this knowledge in terms of how we understand the orbital dynamics of systems under the influence of gravity and applies this knowledge to create orbital maneuvers, plane changes, and interplanetary transfers of artificial satellites and spacecraft. Control theory is applied to ’operate’ the dynamical system of these bodies in space to control them optimally, without delay or overshoot and with control stability. The interplay of the geometry of the dynamical system and the geometry of the controlled vehicle provides a terrain rich in symmetries to be exploited for purposes of control and to be better uncovered and understood.

The purpose of this Special Issue of the journal Symmetry is to present some recent developments as well as possible future directions in the control of spacecraft using the symmetry of interactions in astrodynamics. Special emphasis is given to the concept of symmetry in control, for example, geometric control approaches and approaches considering the use of gravity and the dynamics of the space environment to improve control performance, such as gravity assistance or methods exploiting invariant manifolds and planetary spheres of influence to produce low energy or time-minimal trajectories. New ways of seeing and conceptualizing interactions within the solar system and the dynamics of satellites and spacecraft using geometry and symmetry are particularly welcomed. Dynamics, design and control of space structures/systems (spacecraft, satellites, space robots, deployable structures, etc) are also welcomed.

Prof. Dr. James Douglas Biggs
Dr. Helen Clare Henninger
Dr. Yadong Zhou
Dr. Dario Spiller
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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