• Aerospace Engineering and Technology
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• v.11 no.1
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• pp.169-177
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• 2012

This paper considers the explicit guidance algorithm to determine the closed-loop guidance law applicable to upper stages of a given space launch vehicle. It has the advantage of very simple forms derived from the flat earth assumption, which is appropriate for its on-board application. However the simple time-to-go prediction equation produces the degraded guidance performance of the launcher because of its inaccuracy. To overcome the problem, the elaborate prediction equations, which have been employed in Saturn and H-II, are attempted here. Finally, the simulation results show that the simple guidance approach requires the more accurate time-to-go prediction and gravity integrals for its broad application.