Quasi-Periodic Motion Around Short-Period Orbits for Cislunar Applications

Abstract

Understanding the effects of space weather on crewed and robotic probes is a key aspect of mission design. Much progress has been made in the field of space weather and heliophysics in the past decades, particularly by Parker Solar Probe, GOES-R (Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites - R), and SOHO (Solar and Heliospheric Observatory). As activity in the cislunar region begins to ramp up, it is becoming increasingly important to accurately understand and map the presence of solar energetic particles (SEPs). The authors previously studied a mission concept with the goal of mapping space weather in the cislunar region from [Formula: see text] of the Earth–moon system. This paper builds on prior work by evaluating the efficacy of out-of-plane quasi-periodic trajectories for investigating SEPs, their interaction with Earth’s magnetotail, and the solar corona through natural solar eclipse observations. Additionally, the increased performance of lunar occultations of stellar targets from this location is discussed.