2019-07-25 –, Elm A
The Julia Language 1.0 Ephemeris and Physical Constants Reader for Solar System Bodies is an ephemeris reader, written in the programming language of Julia, is a new tool intended for use in astrodynamic applications.
With computation time being a critical factor in trajectory optimization, this code has aimed for and accomplished a higher computational efficiency than the original code designed in MATLAB®. The ephemeris reader acquires necessary data for mission design from public JPL websites and calculates positions, velocities, accelerations, and other characteristics of major and small bodies at any user-defined times using the extracted data. Additionally, the second generation of this ephemeris reader introduces shape models of known asteroids as well as spherical harmonics capabilities to support gravitational potential models. This version of the ephemeris reader is also compatible with Julia 1.0 which was released in August of 2018. This second-generation version continues to support the obtainment of critical information needed for mission and trajectory design faster and with added efficiency.
This lightning talk will discuss a more detailed overview as well as why Julia was chosen for this project.
Renee Spear is a senior at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Prescott, AZ majoring in Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical track, and minoring in Computer Science. Renee has been involved in the Julia Language 1.0 Ephemeris and Physical Constants Reader for Solar System bodies with her peer, Julia Mihaylov, and mentors, Dr. Kaela Martin of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Dr. Damon Landau of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, for over two years and has published two papers on the subject. Her career goals include pursuing an advanced degree in astrodynamics and working for an aerospace company where she can make an impact on spacecraft and mission design through the optimization of existing procedures and exploration of new avenues in technology and design. Outside of academia, Renee loves to enjoy the outdoors through hiking, photography, kayaking, and backpacking.