Exploiting SRP and impulsive maneuvers for LEO disposal design

As part of the deep dynamical analysis carried out within the H2020 ReDSHIFT project, we performed an extensive study of the dynamics of the Low Earth Orbit (LEO) region by propagating a fine grid of initial orbits. Starting from this detailed cartography of the LEO phase space, we analyze here the possible strategies to guide the disposal of spacecraft at the end-of-life. In particular, we investigate the use of impulsive maneuvers and solar sails to target the unstable orbits where dynamical perturbations, as solar radiation pressure (SRP) or atmospheric drag, can assist the reentry.