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(Reference retrieved automatically from Web of Science through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Sun-synchronous solar reflector orbits designed to warm Mars

Full text
Author(s):
Salazar, F. J. T. [1] ; Winter, O. C. [1]
Total Authors: 2
Affiliation:
[1] Sao Paulo State Univ UNESP, Grp Dinam Orbital & Planetol, Guaratingueta, SP - Brazil
Total Affiliations: 1
Document type: Journal article
Source: ASTROPHYSICS AND SPACE SCIENCE; v. 364, n. 9 SEP 2019.
Web of Science Citations: 0
Abstract

Although the Martian environment is very cold (averaging about -60. C), highly oxidizing and desiccated, several studies have proposed human colonization of Mars. To carry out this ambitious goal, terraforming schemes have been designed to warm Mars and implant Earth-like life. Mars climate engineering includes the use of orbiting solar reflectors to increase the total solar insolation. In this study, Sun-synchronous solar reflectors orbits with inclination equal or less than 90. with respect to the orbital plane of Mars are considered to intervene with the Mars' climate system. With different inclinations, a family of Sunsynchronous solar reflectors orbits distributes azimuthally the energy intercepted by the reflector. The two-body problem is considered, and the Gauss's form of the variational equations is used to find the conditions to achieve a Sunsynchronous frozen orbit with inclination equal or less than 90., taking into account the effects of solar radiation pressure for a perfectly reflecting space mirror and Mars' J2 oblateness perturbation. (AU)

FAPESP's process: 16/24561-0 - On the relevance of small bodies in orbital dynamics
Grantee:Othon Cabo Winter
Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants