Mission analysis for an in-space solar neutrino detection experiment
Messick, Kyle Dutta, Atri Meyer, Holger Solomey, Nickolas
Messick, Kyle
Dutta, Atri
Meyer, Holger
Solomey, Nickolas
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2026-02-01
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Article
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Keywords
Multi-gravity assist trajectory,Neutrino count metric,NuSol mission,Solar neutrino detector
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Citation
Messick, K., Dutta, A., Meyer, H., & Solomey, N. (2025). Mission analysis for an in-space solar neutrino detection experiment. Acta Astronautica, 239, 420-433. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actaastro.2025.11.021
Abstract
NuSol is a proposed mission to fly a neutrino detector in proximity of the Sun, in order to conduct unique science experiments that cannot be realized by detectors stationed on the Earth. The paper presents analysis of the NuSol mission in order to understand the anticipated scientific output of the mission, in terms of the expected neutrino count, as well as opportunities for observing coherent-to-decoherent state transition of neutrinos. To facilitate this analysis, we developed a computational framework incorporating patched-conics methodology, gravity assist maneuver modeling using pump and crank angles, and Tisserand plots. Considering scenarios of powered and unpowered gravity assists, numerical simulations are presented to identify trades associated with the realization of the scientific objectives of the mission.
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Publisher
Elsevier
Journal
Acta Astronautica
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Archival Collection
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945765