A Dynamical Systems Approach to the Design of the Science Orbit Around Europa

G. Gomez, M. Lara and R. Russell

Abstract. The science orbit for a future mission to Europa requires low
eccentricity, low altitude, and high inclination. However, high inclination
orbits around planetary satellites are unstable due to third-body
perturbations. Without control, the orbiter impacts Europa after few weeks.  To
minimize control, a tour over the stable-unstable, averaged manifolds of
unstable frozen orbits has been suggested. We proceed with the unaveraged
equations and study the manifolds of unstable orbits that are periodic in a
rotating frame attached to Europa. Massive numerical computation helps in
understanding the unstable dynamics close to Europa, and, thus, in selecting
long lifetime high inclination orbits. A final test of a selected set of
initial conditions on a high fidelity, ephemeris model, validate the results.