evaluating of the transfer maneuver to geostationary orbit using lunar gravity.

The use of satellite in the geostationary orbit is one of the most important applications of the space missions. The limitation of earth latitude in the launch sites demands higher cost for inclination correction if geostationary orbit is the target orbit. Various methods such as Hohmann transfer have been developed to meet this requirement. Using the lunar gravity field, as an approach to force the inclination becomes zero, has been investigated in this paper. The required equations for design such mission is derived focusing on the earth-moon system and principle of the gravity assist an efficient algorithm is introduced for orbital maneuver based on two body problem and lunar flyby. In this research the proposed method and prevalent methods for a case study have been introduced and have been compared. It is shown that orbital elements of the parking orbit affect the required energy and efficiency of the proposed method.