Eclipse avoidance in TianQin orbit selection


Abstract in English

In future geocentric space-based gravitational-wave observatory missions, eclipses due to passing through the Moons and Earths shadows can negatively impact the sciencecrafts thermal stability and steady power supply. The occurrence should be reduced as much as possible in orbit design. In regard to TianQins circular high orbits, we tackle the combined challenges of avoiding eclipses and stabilizing the nearly equilateral-triangle constellation. Two strategies are proposed, including initial phase selection and orbit resizing to 1:8 synodic resonance with the Moon, where the latter involves slightly raising TianQins preliminary orbital radius of $1times 10^5$ km to $sim 100900$ km. As the result, we have identified pure-gravity target orbits with a permitted initial phase range of $sim 15^circ$, which can maintain eclipse-free during the 3+3 month observation windows throughout a 5-year mission started in 2034, and meanwhile fulfil the constellation stability requirements. Thereby the eclipse issue for TianQin can be largely resolved.

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