Optimal Trajectory Planning and Control for the Manned Maneuvering Unit

The optimal trajectories for the Manned Maneuvering Unit (MMU) rescuing disabled crewmembers or equipments in the vicinity of the Space Station is discussed in this paper, using Clohessy-Wiltshire equations considering integrated influences of several aspects such as minimum fuel, terminal accuracy and time constrains. The targeting errors induced by navigation error and control error are analyzed and poles of C-W equations are illuminated here. Multi-impulse Hill guidance is developed so that highly accuracy rate of the rendezvous can be reached as well as the purpose of energy saving.