Astrodynamics Workbench™ is a tool from Thinking Systems designed to extend the capabilities of NASA's GMAT system to the needs of the broader aerospace industry. Introduced in 2021, Astrodynamics Workbench incorporates enhanced thruster modeling, new computed parameters, fixes for known GMAT bugs, and an enhanced graphical user interface designed around GMAT compatible scripting and the presentation of results:

Project Overview


Astrodynamics Workbench addresses needs encountered supporting commercial clients of Thinking Systems. As a result, the project includes components we needed for this real time analysis. As needs are found that are not available in the tool, Thinking Systems adds components to the system as Workbench compatible plugins. The system includes

  • Compatibility with GMAT R2020a
  • Updates and additions to the GMAT codebase
  • A consistent cross-platform User Interface
  • Steerable, throttlable electric thrusters
  • Plug-in thruster throttles and steering, enabling Optimal Control
  • A steerable solar sail model
  • Parameters for Sun Synchronous orbits
  • Deep space mission support

Astrodynamics Workbench has been used to support mission analysis in low-Earth orbit, cis-Lunar space, transfers to Mars, Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn, and trajectories extending as far as the solar gravitational lens, 550 A.U. from the Sun. Mission support includes conventional chemical thrusters, solar and nuclear electric propulsion systems, and solar sails. Astrodynamics Workbench can be configured for more cutting edge systems as well, including the WindRider propulsion system designed for the JOVE and Pathfinder missions proposed by the Practical Interplanetary Propulsion subgroup of the AIAA Nuclear and Future Flight Propulsion Committee.

Acknowledgements


Astrodynamics Workbench is built with the following systems: