Modeling and Optimization in Space Engineering

This volume presents a selection of advanced case studies that address a substantial range of issues and challenges arising in space engineering. The contributing authors are well-recognized researchers and practitioners in space engineering and in applied optimization. The key mathematical modeling and numerical solution aspects of each application case study are presented in sufficient detail. Classic and more recent space engineering problems – including cargo accommodation and object placement, flight control of satellites, integrated design and trajectory optimization, interplanetary transfers with deep space manoeuvres, low energy transfers, magnetic cleanliness modeling, propulsion system design, sensor system placement, systems engineering, space traffic logistics, and trajectory optimization – are discussed. Novel points of view related to computational global optimization and optimal control, and to multidisciplinary design optimization are also given proper emphasis. A particular attention is paid also to scenarios expected in the context of future interplanetary explorations. Modeling and Optimization in Space Engineering will benefit researchers and practitioners working on space engineering applications. Academics, graduate and post-graduate students in the fields of aerospace and other engineering, applied mathematics, operations research and optimal control will also find the book useful, since it discusses a range of advanced model development and solution techniques and tools in the context of real-world applications and new challenges.

From the reviews:“This book presents a collection of such modeling applied to a wide variety of problems related to design, optimal analysis, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and issues of optimization of payload and related problems that arise from both manned and unmanned missions … . This book is targeted at practitioners of mathematical and computational optimization methods and/or engineering applications. In this respect, the book provides a state-of-the-art contribution that covers its topics well.” (Mike Minkoff, ACM Computing Reviews, March, 2013)

Giorgio Fasano is a researcher and practitioner at Thales Alenia Space with more than 25 years of experience in the field of optimization, in support to space engineering. He holds a MSc degree in Mathematics, he is also a Fellow of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications, has been awarded the Chartered Mathematician (IMA, UK), as well as the Chartered Scientist (Science Council, UK) designations. He is also a Co-editor of Operations Research in Space and Air (Ciriani et al., Eds., Kluwer Academic Publ., 2003), and author of several specialist publications on optimization in space. He was a Finalist at the EURO 2007 Excellence in Practice Award. He currently works as technical manager of the CAST (Cargo Accommodation Support Tool) project, funded by the European Space Agency. His interests include Mixed Integer Programming, Global Optimization, and Optimal Control. János D. Pintér is a researcher and practitioner with four decades of experience in the area of systems modeling and optimization, including algorithm and software development.He holds MSc, PhD and DSc degrees in Mathematics, with specialization in the Operations Research area. He has authored and edited books including the award-winning monograph Global Optimization in Action. He also wrote nearly 200 journal articles, book chapters, and other technical documents. Dr. Pintér is an active member and officer of several professional organizations (CORS, EUROPT, HORS, INFORMS), and he serves on the editorial board of international professional journals including the Journal of Global Optimization. Dr. Pintér is the principal developer or co-developer of a range of nonlinear optimization software products. These products are used worldwide by researchers and practitioners in academia, and at business and research organizations. For more information, please visit www.pinterconsulting.com.