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Current Research Interests
· Trajectory optimization algorithms and techniques (ballistic, low-thrust, impulsive-thrust)
· Long flight time, hypersensitive optimal control problems (resonance hopping, multiple flybys, multi-revolution, multi-body trajectories)
· Third-body and manifold dynamics (low energy transfers, captures, and escapes)
· Periodic orbits and general orbit stability (high-fidelity repeat ground track design, constellation design, cyclers, planetary moon trajectories)
· General trajectory designs for spacecraft missions to low-Earth-orbit, Geo-stationary, the Moon, libration points, Mars, comets, asteroids, and the Jupiter and Saturn moon systems
· Development of general mission design tools using fast, robust, higher-order methods
· Efficient software implementation – (parallel computing, multi-objective optimization)
Brief Bio
Prior to coming to Georgia Tech, R.P.R. served as a member of the Guidance, Navigation, and Control Section at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory and was involved as mission designer and orbit determination analyst for projects such as JIMO (Jupiter Icy Moons Orbiter), Chandra, Spitzer, Ulysses, TPF (Terrestrial Planet Finder), and limited roles on Cassini and Dawn. He also worked on proposals and advanced concepts for space missions to Earth, the Moon, Mars, comets, asteroids, and the moons around Jupiter and Saturn. He further supported internal research on developing technologies such as low-thrust trajectory optimization and science orbit design at planetary moons.
R.P.R. has authored or co-authored dozens of journal, conference, and other technical publications; and has been a recipient of several NASA, JPL, AIAA, AAS, and other awards. He received his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University and his graduate degrees from the University of Texas at Austin.
Example Orbit Movies
Enceladus Science Orbit (top view, 3D view)
V-infinity globe with free return locations
RTBP periodic orbit family evolution example (credit: Martin Lara)
Other Links
Space Systems Design Lab (SSDL) at Georgia Tech
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Guggenheim School of Aerospace Engineering Georgia Institute of Technology |
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Orbital Mechanics and Space Mission Design Applications |
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WELCOME!
Last updated: June 27, 2008
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