Objective
AstroNet will bring together mathematicians, engineers and astronomers from universities, governmental agencies and industry to work on innovative new methods for designing spacecraft trajectories and controlling their dynamics. Particular emphasis will be placed on optimizing trajectories and control to minimize fuel use and extend mission ranges. This will be achieved by maximizing the use of 'natural dynamics', employing sophisticated ideas and techniques from dynamical systems theory. The results will be extended to studies of the dynamics and control of novel spacecraft architectures, such as solar sails, space tethers and formations of spacecraft. Theoretical analysis and numerical work will be tested in laboratory facilities and onboard operating satellites. AstroNet's training programme will centre on projects for Early Stage and Experienced Researchers that cross the traditional boundaries between mathematics, engineering and industry, ensuring that they get an interdisciplinary and multisectorial overview of the field. This will be supported by an extensive programme of Schools, Workshops and Tutorials, and by 'Internships' at the European Space Agency Operations Centre, NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) and Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL). The Network programme will promote the creation of a vibrant and innovative European community of 'astrodynamicists' with strong links to neighbouring areas on mathematics and engineering. to leaders in the field outside Europe, and to the Space Industry. The excitement generated by the programme will attract new recruits into the area, ensuring the long term viability of the collaborative research and training programme.
Fields of science
- engineering and technologymechanical engineeringvehicle engineeringaerospace engineeringastronautical engineeringspacecraft
- natural sciencesphysical sciencesastronomyplanetary sciencesasteroids
- engineering and technologymechanical engineeringvehicle engineeringaerospace engineeringsatellite technology
- natural sciencesmathematicsapplied mathematicsdynamical systems
- engineering and technologyenvironmental engineeringenergy and fuels
Call for proposal
FP6-2005-MOBILITY-1
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