Derives an escape trajectory for Earth-Moon transfer, suggesting improved efficiency and reduced radiation exposure.
This work presents a derivation of an optimal Earth–Moon escape trajectory obtained from a closed variational framework. The analysis combines gravitational escape dynamics with constraints imposed by the Van Allen radiation belts and spacecraft energy requirements. Starting from the escape-energy condition E=0E = 0E=0 and including the angular momentum contribution of the trajectory, a parabolic escape solution is obtained. The resulting motion satisfies the dynamical relation r˙2=2GMEr−L2r2 r^2 = 2GM_E/r - L^2/r^2r˙2=r2GME−r2L2 which determines both the radial evolution and the angular geometry of the transfer orbit. The trajectory minimizes the time spent within the Van Allen belts while remaining compatible with Earth–Moon transfer dynamics. The resulting escape geometry produces an emergent escape angle of approximately 36∘36^∘36∘, closely matching the geometry used in historical lunar missions. The analysis further determines an optimal injection altitude of approximately 200–400 km200–400\,km200–400km and predicts an Earth–Moon transfer time of approximately 727272 hours. The optimized trajectory reduces the required injection velocity relative to classical transfer solutions, producing a measurable reduction in propellant consumption. The resulting path therefore simultaneously minimizes radiation exposure, maintains efficient transfer time, and improves propellant efficiency. These results show that the combined gravitational and magnetospheric constraints naturally lead to a transfer trajectory closely aligned with efficient Earth–Moon mission profiles.
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Livolsi Edoardo (2026) studied this question.
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