DEFINITION:

Flight dynamics support addresses the trajectory and attitude aspects of space missions. This includes the pre-flight trajectory design (mission analysis). In flight, it includes the determination and control of trajectory and attitude of the spacecraft, monitoring of spacecraft AOCS and generation of orbit- and attitude-related command parameters. The FD domain of expertise comprises mathematics, dynamics, optimisation and environment modelling. FD support is mission critical and thus must be correct, robust, reliable and flexible.

(Source: ESA TD 10A)

SUBDOMAINS:

1. Mission Analysis and Trajectory Design: Covers pre-flight spacecraft mission design, trajectory optimisation and launch window calculations.
2. Advanced Flight Dynamics Operations: Covers high-precision navigation at minor bodies, interplanetary RVD and formation control, FD support to GNC systems including novel sensors and actuators; aero-capture and aero-braking; entry, descent and landing; high-precision formation-flying control; high precision orbit control for Earth observation.
3. Advanced Flight Dynamics Processes and Tools: Covers automation of flight dynamics operations, advanced modules of FD application SW and advanced operational  processes