The cislunar polygonal-like periodic orbit: Construction, transition and its application

In this paper, we consider a family of periodic orbits, identified as polygonal-like periodic orbit (abbr. PLPO). With lunar gravity ignored, PLPOs can be constructed based on resonance orbits, of which the initial condition is parameterized by four Kepler elements. Taken lunar gravity into consideration, the existence of PLPOs is proven by deriving the initial conditions analytically utilizing Hori-Lie perturbation method. Thus, the periodicity condition is expressed by modified Kepler elements, i.e., semi-major axis, eccentricity and the argument of perigee. Then the break of KAM tori containing PLPOs is investigated numerically and the results show that PLPOs can be considered as the critical state to cislunar transit orbits. Finally, the periodicity and break condition are utilized to construct in-orbit infrastructure, named as "parking apron" system, which supports telecommunications, navigation, crew and cargo transportation, and astronaut rescue.