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Earth-moon libration points: Theory, existence and applications

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Abstract

The availability of reliable satellites and space probes makes it timely to review our state of knowledge in detail on all aspects of our solar system so that these new tools can be used to maxi-mum advantage in scientific exploration and technical use.

Earth-Moon libration points have been of theoretical interest as a concrete example in the three body problem. In analogy with the Trojan Asteroids they may also be collection points for dust or particles or other “small” bodies which are shown to be of geophysical interest. Finally, they may find use in applications where relatively long time stationary behavior relative to the Earth and the Moon is desirable; for example: for long term Solar observation or as a communication link.

The leading question of interest at the present is confirmation of reported ground observations on dust clouds in the vicinity of the stable points through satellite based observations.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Space Sciences Laboratory, General Electric Company, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

    L. Steg & J. P. De Vries

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  1. L. Steg
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  2. J. P. De Vries
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The Authors are indebted to the Space Sciences Board of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences for permission to use background material of the Space Research Summer Study 1965.

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Steg, L., De Vries, J.P. Earth-moon libration points: Theory, existence and applications. Space Sci Rev 5, 210–233 (1966). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00241055

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00241055

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