The Hohmann Transfer

1
The Hohmann Transfer
The Hohmann Transfer (Sellers, Chapter 6 pp.
190-202, pp. 208-219)
2
IN-Plane Orbital Transfer
3
Elliptical orbit
As long as DV is not so large that you Escape
the planet!
4
The Hohmann transfer

• Most fuel efficient method
• All velocity changes are tangential
• (change velocity magnitude but not direction)
• Between circular or (aligned elliptical orbits)
• Takes longer than other less efficient transfers
• Tangential elliptical transfer orbit
• (example Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit GTO)

5
Why is Hohmann Transfer Optimal
Why is Hohmann Transfer Optimal For DV
Wasted DV
Excess Energy Transfer
6
Why is Hohmann Transfer Optimal
Why is Hohmann Transfer Optimal For DV
Two curves Are tangential In space
7
Orbit

8
Orbit

9
In Plane orbit transfer
10
Delta-V 1
11
Delta-V 1
12
Delta-V2
13
DeltaV-2
14
Total DeltaV
15
Delta V Plots
16
Delta V Plots
17
Sellers example 6.3 pp. 215-216
18
Transfer Orbit parameters
42,160 km 6570 km
19
Transfer Orbit period
20
Angular Velocity
21
Angular Velocities (initial_
22
Lead angle
23
Wait time
24
wait time
25
wait time .
26
wait time concluded