Dynamics modeling and calculation of cycler trajectories in the earth-moon system

The cycler trajectory concept in the earth-moon system is an alternative approach to developing and maintaining large-scale space transportation with long duration and low cost for manned lunar mission, and its trajectory design is the first step to achieve the architecture. First, the desired orbits are classified by using orbit arcs generated by the second species according to the cycler trajectory concept in the earth-moon system. Then the functions of its resonance and symmetry in the design and application of cycler trajectories are discussed. Furthermore, three kinds of methods for dynamics modeling and calculation of cycler trajectories are concluded as well as their pros and cons. The continuation strategies are also introduced for generating families of cycler trajectories. This study and survey about cycler trajectories in the earth-moon system could provide a new insight and reference for the manned lunar landing project of China in future.