The phase space structure of retrograde mean motion resonances with Neptune: the 4/5, 7/9, 5/8 and 8/13 cases

Abstract

AbstractWe compute planar and three-dimensional retrograde periodic orbits in the vicinity of the restricted three-body problem (RTBP) with the Sun and Neptune as primaries and we concentrate on the dynamics of higher-order exterior mean motion resonances with Neptune. By using the circular planar model as the basic model, families of retrograde symmetric periodic orbits are computed at the 4/5, 7/9, 5/8 and 8/13 resonances. We determine the bifurcation points from the planar circular to the planar elliptic problem and we find all the corresponding families. In order to obtain a global view of the families of periodic orbits, the eccentricity of the primaries takes values in the whole interval $$0<e'<1$$ 0 < e ′ < 1 . Then, we find all the possible vertical critical orbits (v.c.o) of the planar circular problem and we proceed to the three-dimensional circular restricted 3-body problem. In this model, retrograde periodic orbits are generated mainly from the retrograde v.c.o. Also, if we continue families of direct orbits for $$i>90^\circ $$ i > 90 ∘ , then we can obtain families of 3D symmetric retrograde periodic orbits. The linear stability is examined too. Stable periodic orbits are associated with phase space domains of resonant motion where TNOs can be captured. In order to study the phase space structure of the above resonances, we construct dynamical stability maps for the whole inclination interval ($$0<i<180^\circ $$ 0 < i < 180 ∘ ) by using the well-known “MEGNO Chaos Indicator”. Finally, we discuss about TNOs which are currently located at these resonances.