arxiveess.SYastro-ph.EPmath.OC2026-07-11
Tulip-Shaped Orbits for Lunar South-Pole PNT and Direct-to-Earth Relay Missions
Darin C. Koblick, Michael Casey
This geometric study evaluates a compact seven-petal, 6:5-resonant tulip-shaped orbit constellation for lunar south-pole positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) and direct-to-Earth relay services. The tulip-shaped orbits are compared against elliptical lunar frozen orbit (ELFO)…