Equivariant optimisation for the gravitational $n$-body problem: a computational factory of symmetric orbits

Abstract

In this paper we present \texttt{SymOrb.jl}, a software which combines group representation theory and variational methods to provide numerical solutions of singular dynamical systems of paramount relevance in Celestial Mechanics and other interacting particles models. Among all, it prepares for large-scale search of symmetric periodic orbits for the classical $n$-body problem and their classification, paving the way towards a computational validation of Poincar\'e conjecture about the density of periodic orbits. Through the accessible language of Julia, \texttt{SymOrb.jl} offers a unified implementation of an earlier version. This paper provides theoretical and practical guidelines for the specific approach we adopt, complemented with examples.