Optimization of low-thrust periodic reconfiguration in Tianqin orbit

Tianqin is a project scheduled for detecting gravitational waves in space. The project requires high levels of constellation stability. This paper optimizes the Tianqin trajectory over 5 years using low-thrust maneuvers and a ‘3 months on +3 months off’ observation window scheme to improve constellation stability and reduce spacecraft fuel consumption. The result is a series of stable orbit configurations. The problem of fuel optimization is solved efficiently by combining a normalization strategy, a homotopic approach, and switching detection. Additionally, the optimization strategy quantitatively evaluates the fuel consumption required to maintain the stability of the Tianqin orbits. This evaluation provides a valuable reference for the performance design of the low-thrust propulsion system in the spacecraft.