Ascending trajectory optimization of near-space airship based on Genetic Algorithm

The energy consumption of near-space airship during the ascending phase has an direct effect on its payload capability. Because of that, it is necessary to research on trajectory optimization of airship. At first, the models of various wind interference are given from the ground to the stratosphere and the trajectory optimization scheme of airship based on numerical method is proposed. Secondly, direct collocation method will be used to convert the optimal control problem into a parameter optimization problem, then Genetic Algorithm (GA) will be used to solve the nonlinear programming. Thirdly, the ascending trajectory is divided into three phases according to the altitude and wind interference. Finally, the simulation results of the trajectory optimization from ground to the appointed position under the consideration of wind interference will be shown.