Abstract This research proposes a new strategy for Mars orbit injection, based on aerocapture and low-thrust nonlinear orbit control. The range of periapse altitudes that allow aerocapture is identified as a function of the hyperbolic excess velocity at Mars arrival, with reference to a large variety of atmospheric density profiles and different ballistic coefficients. This analysis proves that a safe periares altitudinal range leading to aerocapture in all atmospheric conditions does not exist. Three different correction maneuvers, aimed at avoiding both impact and escape, are identified. After the atmospheric arc, the spacecraft orbit exhibits large dispersions in terms of orbit elements. Therefore, the identification of an effective autonomous guidance strategy, capable of driving the spacecraft toward the desired operational orbit, is mandatory. To do this, low-thrust nonlinear orbit control is proposed as an effective option. A feedback law for the low-thrust direction and magnitude, with saturation of the thrust magnitude, is defined, and is proven to enjoy global stability properties. As a result, the spacecraft travels toward the operational orbit of interest, i.e. either (a) an areostationary orbit, (b) a quasi-synchronous inclined orbit, or (c) a low-altitude, sunsynchronous orbit. Monte Carlo simulations, with stochastic density profiles and uncertain initial conditions, point out that the strategy at hand is successful and allows reducing the overall propellant budget in comparison to direct orbit injection based on chemical propulsion. Moreover, the overall time of flight typically ranges from 45 to 140 days, and therefore it is much shorter than that required with the use of aerobraking. As a last advantage, low-thrust nonlinear orbit control allows achievement of a variety of operational orbits, with great accuracy.

Highlights • Aerocapture at Mars is investigated, either without or with correction maneuvers. • Capture corridors are identified. • Several correction maneuvers are defined, aimed at avoiding escape or impact. • Low-thrust nonlinear orbit control is used for precise orbit injection. • aerocapture and low-thrust orbit control is successfully tested for 3 final orbits.