The Multi-Moon Orbiter concept is introduced, wherein a single spacecraft orbits
several moons of Jupiter, allowing long duration observations. The
V requirements
for this mission can be low if ballistic captures and resonant gravity assists by Jupiter's
moons are used. For example, using only 22 m/s, a spacecraft initially injected in a
jovian orbit can be directed into a capture orbit around Europa, orbiting both Callisto
and Ganymede enroute. The time of flight for this preliminary trajectory is four years,
but may be reduced by striking a compromise between fuel and time optimization during
the inter-moon transfer phases.
