Dynamics around small irregularly shaped objects modeled as a mass dipole

Abstract In this work, we investigate the dynamics of a spacecraft near two primary bodies. The massive body is considered to have a spherical shape, while the less massive one is elongated and modeled as a dipole. The dipole consists of two connected masses, one is spherical and the other is an oblate spheroid. The gravitational potential of the elongated body is determined by four independent parameters. To study the dynamics, we construct the equations of motion of a spacecraft with negligible mass under the effect of the current force model. The existence and locations of the equilibrium points are analyzed for various values of the system parameters. We found that the existence and locations of the points are affected by the system parameters. Also, we studied the linear stability of the equilibrium points. We found some stable collinear points when the oblateness parameter is negative, otherwise the points are not stable. We used the curves of zero velocity to identify the regions of allowed motion. Furthermore, we discussed the 2001 SN263 asteroid system and found some stable collinear points when the oblateness parameter is negative. In addition, the triangular points of the system are stable in a linear sense.