Dynamic trajectory control of gliders

Abstract

A new dynamic control algorithm in order to direct the trajectory of a glider to a pre-assigned target point is proposed. The algorithms runs iteratively and the approach to the target point is self-correcting. The algorithm is applicable to any non-powered lift-enabled vehicle (glider) travelling in planetary atmospheres. As a proof of concept, we have applied the new algorithm to the command and control of the trajectory of the Space Shuttle during the Terminal Area Energy Management (TAEM) phase.