Astrodynamics

Astrodynamics

Astrodynamics research focuses on orbital mechanics; space surveillance; aeronomy; estimation theory; trajectory design;optimal control in rarified atmospheres; rendezvous and relative motion guidance; and machine learning for guidance, navigation and control. One emphasis captures multiple aspects of the satellite drag problem, including detailed calculation of drag coefficients for satellites using different gas-surface interaction models. KUAE research groups pioneered the use of precision orbit determination data to estimate atmospheric density corrections along the satellite orbit. Further research is assimilating these and other density estimates into general circulation models, which are global, physics-based, detailed models of the ionosphere/thermosphere system. Recent research examines the use of artificial neural networks to estimate corrections to empirical density models and predictions of the solar and geomagnetic indices used to drive empirical density models. KUAE researchers also work in CubeSat development, satellite formation flying, and satellite remote sensing.