Space Manifold Dynamics, Softcover reprint of the original 1st ed. 2010 Novel Spaceways for Science and Exploration

The term "Space Manifold Dynamics" (SMD) was proposed during the workshop "Novel Spaceways for Scientific and Exploration Missions" for describing new types of spacecraft trajectories that could revolutionize how space missions are designed. Obtained by applying the dynamical system approach to mission design, these trajectories represent a fascinating alternative to elliptic motion and provide a deeper understanding of the classical three and N-body problems in celestial mechanics. This book gives a state-of-the-art overview of this new field of study together with applications of an interdisciplinary nature involving planetary science, astrophysics and the manned exploration of the solar system.

Invariant Manifolds, Lagrangian Trajectories and Space Mission Design.- Chaos and Diffusion in Dynamical Systems Through Stable-Unstable Manifolds.- Regular and Chaotic Dynamics of Periodic and Quasi-Periodic Motions.- Survey of Recent Results on Weak Stability Boundaries and Applications.- On the Accessibility of the Moon.- Optimal Low-Thrust Trajectories to the Interior Earth-Moon Lagrange Point.- On the Use of the Earth-Moon Lagrangian Point L 1 for Supporting the Manned Lunar Exploration.- Manifolds and Radiation Protection.- Three-Body Invariant Manifold Transition with Electric Propulsion.- From Sputnik to the Moon: Astrophysics and Cosmology from Space.- Space Exploration: How Science and Economy may Work Together.