ETD

• electric solar wind sail
• optimal control
• orbital mechanics
• plasma brake
• propellantless propulsion system
• selenocentric mission design

The thesis explores the development of locally-optimal control laws for a CubeSat in a selenocentric orbit. A general background on the state of the art of electric solar wind sails (E-sails) is provided. The thesis then delves into the thrust model and dynamic model used to simulate the CubeSat's trajectory with a single-tether e-sail. The study discusses control laws for lunar escape and lunar surface impact scenarios, presenting results related to maneuver times and attitude control requirements in both cases.