Optimizing orbits for TianQin

TianQin is a geocentric space-based gravitational-wave observatory mission consisting of three drag-free controlled satellites in an equilateral triangle with an orbital radius of \( 10^{5}\) km. The constellation faces the white-dwarf binary RX J0806.3+1527 located slightly below the ecliptic plane...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inarXiv.org
Main Authors Bo-Bing, Ye, Zhang, Xuefeng, Ming-Yue, Zhou, Wang, Yan, Hui-Min, Yuan, Gu, Defeng, Ding, Yanwei, Zhang, Jinxiu, Mei, Jianwei, Luo, Jun
Format Paper Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Ithaca Cornell University Library, arXiv.org 06.12.2020
Subjects
Gravitation
Gravitational waves
Lunar orbits
Optimization
Physics - General Relativity and Quantum Cosmology
Physics - Instrumentation and Methods for Astrophysics
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Summary:TianQin is a geocentric space-based gravitational-wave observatory mission consisting of three drag-free controlled satellites in an equilateral triangle with an orbital radius of \( 10^{5}\) km. The constellation faces the white-dwarf binary RX J0806.3+1527 located slightly below the ecliptic plane, and is subject to gravitational perturbations that can distort the formation. In this study, we present combined methods to optimize the TianQin orbits so that a set of 5-year stability requirements can be met. Moreover, we discuss slow long-term drift of the detector pointing due to orbital precession, and put forward stable orbits with six other pointings along the lunar orbital plane. Some implications of the findings are pointed out.
ISSN:2331-8422
DOI:10.48550/arxiv.2012.03260