Resonance transitions associated to weak capture in the restricted three-body problem

An interesting dynamics is studied in the restricted three-body problem where a particle abruptly transitions between resonance states, called a resonance hop. It occurs in a region about the secondary mass point which supports weak capture. This region, called a weak stability boundary, was recently proven to give rise to chaotic dynamics. Although it was numerically known that the resonance hop was associated with this boundary, this process was not well understood. In addition, the dynamical structure of the weak stability boundary has not been well understood. In this paper, we give a way to reveal the global structure of the weak stability boundary associated to resonance motions. This structure is shown to be surprisingly rich in resonant periodic motions interconnected by invariant manifolds. In this case, nearly all the motions are approximately resonant in nature where resonance hops can occur. The correlation dimension of orbits undergoing resonant motions, associated to the weak stability boundary, is also examined. The dynamics analyzed in the present paper is related to that studied by J. Marsden et al. under the perspective of Lyapunov orbits and the associated invariant manifolds. Applications are discussed.     

Old-Aged Primary Distance Indicators

Old-aged stellar distance indicators are present in all Galactic structures (halo, bulge, disk) and in galaxies of all Hubble types and, thus, are immensely powerful tools for understanding our Universe. Here we present a comprehensive review for three primary standard candles from Population II: (i) RR Lyrae type variables (RRL), (ii) type II Cepheid variables (T2C), and (iii) the tip of the red giant branch (TRGB). The discovery and use of these distance indicators is placed in historical context before describing their theoretical foundations and demonstrating their observational applications across multiple wavelengths. The methods used to establish the absolute scale for each standard candle is described with a discussion of the observational systematics. We conclude by looking forward to the suite of new observational facilities anticipated over the next decade; these have both a broader wavelength coverage and larger apertures than current facilities. We anticipate future advancements in our theoretical understanding and observational application of these stellar populations as they apply to the Galactic and extragalactic distance scale.     

Exoplanetary searches with gravitational microlensing: Polarization issues

There are different methods for finding exoplanets such as radial spectral shifts, astrometrical measurements, transits, timing etc. Gravitational microlensing (including pixel-lensing) is among the most promising techniques with the potentiality of detecting Earth-like planets at distances about a few astronomical units from their host star or near the so-called snow line with a temperature in the range 0–100 ^°C on a solid surface of an exoplanet. We emphasize the importance of polarization measurements which can help to resolve degeneracies in theoretical models. In particular, the polarization angle could give additional information about the relative position of the lens with respect to the source.     

Mission to Mars using integrated propulsion concepts: considerations, opportunities, and strategies

The aim of this paper is to evaluate the feasibility of a mission to Mars using the Integrated Propulsion Systems (IPS) which means to couple Nuclear-MPD-ISPU propulsion systems. In particular both mission analysis and propulsion aspects are analyzed together with technological aspects. Identifying possible mission scenarios will lead to the study of possible strategies for Mars Exploration and also of methods for reducing cost. As regard to IPS, the coupling between Nuclear Propulsion (Rubbia's engine) and Superconductive MPD propulsion is considered for the Earth-Mars trajectories: major emphasis is given to the advantages of such a system. The In Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) concerns on-Mars operations; In Situ Propellant Utilization (ISPU) is foreseen particularly for LOX-CH4 engines for Mars Ascent Vehicles and this possibility is analyzed from a technological point of view. Tether Systems are also considered during interplanetary trajectories and as space elevators on Mars orbit. Finally strategic considerations associated to this mission are considered also.     

Optimal supersonic intake design for air collection engines (ACE)

The success of Air Collection Engines (ACE) depends on the efficient integration of the many sub-systems involved. This article describes the tools developed to design a supersonic air intake of the mixed external/internal compression type that will feed the engine or the air liquefaction plant or both, during the different phases of the mission. One design procedure aims at finding the shape of minimum total pressure losses. An alternative strategy aims at designing intakes which attain prescribed Mach number and flow deviation at the throat. Two design points are selected and their off-design behavior is predicted by space- and time-marching CFD models. The CFD analyses eventually provide the performance charts of the air intakes.