Mission analysis for the Radiation Environment Monitor for Energetic Cosmic rays (REMEC) mission
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The Radiation Environment Monitor for Energetic Cosmic rays (REMEC) is a micro-sat mission developed to reach deep space to study, for the first time outside the Earth’s magnetosphere, Solar Energetic Particles (SEP). The main scientific payloads consist of the Penetrating particle ANalyzer magnetic spectrometer (Pix.PAN), based on Timepix4 technology, and the HardPix radiation monitors. The trajectory design developed for the REMEC mission phases 0-A and B1 is described herein. First, possible operational orbits in the Sun–Earth (SE) and Earth–Moon (EM) systems are identified. Then, by exploiting the Circular Restricted Three Body Problem (CR3BP), feasible trajectories are calculated for both a baseline and a backup option. The dynamical model for the baseline case is then refined, including the direct effect of the Moon on the dynamic. In addition, propulsion system requirements were to be considered in the analysis, and an orbit-raising strategy was developed. Finally, the results obtained with the refined dynamic, both on the operational orbit and the transfer trajectory, and with the orbit-raising strategy are shown and commented. • Preliminary mission analysis for a small satellite targeting Lagrangian points orbits. • Definition of operational orbits and transfer trajectories within the Bicircular Restricted Four-Body Problem (BR4BP). • Development of an orbit-raising strategy for manifold insertion with limited on-board thrust.
Source: Acta Astronautica
Institutions: Politecnico di Milano, National Research Council
Language: English
Subfield: Aerospace Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $3,350
Funder: European Space Agency
OpenAlex ID: W4407597108