Orbital perturbation analysis and generation of nominal near rectilinear halo orbits using low-thrust propulsion

The near rectilinear halo orbit (NRHO) is a potential orbit for the establishment of lunar space station. This research is focused on the analysis of major orbital perturbations on NRHOs and the generation of nominal orbit using a low-thrust engine in the ephemeris model. First, the NRHO family is defined in the circular restricted three-body problem (CRTBP). Then, different perturbations are performed to integrate the spacecraft motion along the NRHOs; meanwhile, a modified momentum integral is employed to calculate the orbit deviation in the case of each perturbation examined independently. By this way, these perturbations are classified according to the magnitude of impact on NRHOs. Finally, combined with a fuel-optimal control, a target-point strategy generating the nominal-controlled NRHO in the real Earth–Moon system is proposed using low-thrust technology. By selecting a fixed point from the original NRHO, the spacecraft is forced to depart from this point and then return to it, thereby forming a controlled closed trajectory. This provides an alternative nominal orbit for the future application of the low-thrust engine to lunar exploration missions.