A Computationally Inexpensive Optimal Guidance via Radial-Basis-Function Neural Network for Autonomous Soft Landing on Asteroids

PLoS One. 2015 Sep 14;10(9):e0137792. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0137792. eCollection 2015.

Abstract

Optimal guidance is essential for the soft landing task. However, due to its high computational complexities, it is hardly applied to the autonomous guidance. In this paper, a computationally inexpensive optimal guidance algorithm based on the radial basis function neural network (RBFNN) is proposed. The optimization problem of the trajectory for soft landing on asteroids is formulated and transformed into a two-point boundary value problem (TPBVP). Combining the database of initial states with the relative initial co-states, an RBFNN is trained offline. The optimal trajectory of the soft landing is determined rapidly by applying the trained network in the online guidance. The Monte Carlo simulations of soft landing on the Eros433 are performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed guidance algorithm.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Computer Simulation*
  • Minor Planets*
  • Models, Theoretical*
  • Neural Networks, Computer*
  • Space Flight*

Grants and funding

This work was supported by National Basic Research Program of China (973 Program) Grant 2012CB720000.