Transfers to sticky distant retrograde orbits

A study was conducted to explore transfers to sticky distant retrograde orbits in the sun-Earth system, extending the methodologies. Sticky regions retained orbits characterized by a dynamical lifetime longer than predicted by the Lyapunov time. A differential-correction algorithm was developed that modified the terminal radial velocity for transfers following sets of collision that existed across energy surfaces piercing the sun-Earth line. A small impulsive stabilizing maneuver was performed to insert into a stable quasi-periodic distant retrograde orbit (QPDRO) after a coasting phase. The transfer resulted result in significant fuel savings compared to direct insertion into the SPDRO.