Simulation and Optimization of Hybrid Chemical-Electric Propulsion Transfer from Low Earth Orbit to Geosynchronous Earth Orbit

Abstract

Recent advances in satellite deployment and increasing demands for efficient use of propellant have prompted interest in transfer strategies from low Earth orbit (LEO) to geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO). This paper compares hybrid chemical-electric propulsion with traditional single-mode chemical and electric systems. Using Python simulations, it models LEO-to-GEO transfers with combinations of high-thrust chemical engines and low-thrust electric thrusters, calculating values for both transfer time and propellant consumed. We hypothesized that the hybrid approach would yield a reduction in propellant mass, while keeping travel times closer to those achieved by chemical propulsion alone. Simulation results confirm this hypothesis: hybrid strategies outperform electric alone in time, and chemical alone in propellant use. These findings suggest hybrid propulsion as an adaptable solution for contemporary satellite missions, balancing efficiency with operational constraints.