A High Earth, Lunar Resonant Orbit for Lower Cost Space Science Missions

Abstract

Many science missions require an unobstructed view of space and a stable thermal environment but lack the technical or programmatic resources to reach orbits that satisfy these needs. This paper presents a high Earth orbit in 2:1 resonance with the Moon that provides these conditions, reached via lunar gravity assist. Analytical guidance and numerical investigation yielded deep insight into this unconventional orbit's behavior, making it possible to select a robust mission design. Solutions are available for a broad range of missions, from smaller Explorer-class missions such as the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite to larger missions that seek lower-Delta V alternatives to traditional Lagrange-point, drift-away, and geosynchronous orbits.