Adaptive Estimation of Distribution Algorithms for Low-Thrust Trajectory Optimization

A direct adaptive scheme is presented as an alternative approach for minimum-fuel low-thrust trajectory design in non-coplanar orbit transfers using fitness landscape analysis (FLA). The spacecraft dynamics is modeled with respect to modified equinoctial elements by considering J2 orbital perturbations. Taking into account the timings of thrust arcs, the discretization nodes for thrust profile, and the solution of multi-impulse orbit transfer, a constrained continuous optimization problem is formed for low-thrust orbital maneuvers. An adaptive method within the framework of the estimation of distribution algorithms (EDA) is proposed, which aims at conserving the feasibility of the solutions within the search process. Several problem identifiers for low-thrust trajectory optimization are introduced, and the complexity of the solution domain is analyzed by evaluating the landscape feature of the search space via FLA. Two adaptive operators are proposed, which control the search process based on the need for exploration and exploitation of the search domain to achieve optimal transfers. The adaptive operators are implemented in the presented EDA and several perturbed and nonperturbed orbit transfer problems are solved. The results confirm the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed approach in finding optimal low-thrust transfer trajectories.