# Chance-Constrained, Drift-Safe Guidance for Spacecraft Rendezvous

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2401.11077 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2401.11077/

## Key facts

- Cited by 3 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 20 Jan 2024.

## Built on by (most cited first, 3 of 3)

- [Towards Robust Spacecraft Trajectory Optimization via Transformers](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2410.05585/) (2024)
- [Agile Tradespace Exploration for Space Rendezvous Mission Design via Transformers](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2510.03544/) (2025)
- [Language-Conditioned Safe Trajectory Generation for Spacecraft Rendezvous](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2512.09111/) (2025)

## Abstract (arXiv)

A robust drift-safe rendezvous trajectory optimization tool is developed in this work, with applications to orbital rendezvous and proximity operations. The method is based on direct collocation and utilizes a sequential convex programming framework, and is extended from previous work to include passive safety constraints. The tool is then paired with a dispersion analysis framework to allow trajectories to be optimized subject to plant, navigation, and actuator uncertainties. The timing, direction, and magnitude of orbital maneuvers are optimized subject to the expected propellant usage, for a given navigation system performance. Representative trajectories are presented for the LEO flight regime, but the approach can also be applied to GEO and NRHO with minimal modification.