Low-thrust orbit transfer by combining genetic algorithm with refined Q-law method

A new orbit transfer method is presented by combining the genetic algorithm (GA) with the refined Q-law method. Considering the energy consumption, the relative thrust efficiency is introduced as a threshold deciding whether to thrust or coast. GA is used to achieve the global time-optimal orbit transfer. The trajectory optimization problem is transformed into the constraint parameter optimization problem, thus the nonlinear two-point boundary value problem is avoided. The refined Q-law method integrated with the fuzzy logic control is adopted for the end course, the vibration is avoided and the high precision is achieved. The numerical simulation of satellite orbit transfer is implemented. Results show that the new method can achieve the time-optimal orbit transfer and the low energy consumption, thus improving the transfer precision.