thanks for posting a good question wild_pointer, and thanks to Emergent et. al for the good replies!

Depending on the distances and accelerations (and current velocities) of both the projectile and its target, you will want to break your strategies into 1)Initial 2)running 3)terminal maneuvering. The acceleration and the possible specific impulse (how much total acceleration both have fuel/energy for) versus distance gives time which increases the possibilities of a target heading in very different directions at very different velocities which the projectiles planning has to account for.

Hints about expected behavior of the target are extremely useful in deciding how to achieve the given movements. (ie- a ship that doesnt know you are their on a regualr course somewhere likely would maintain a constant direction and speed curve)



When you are very far away you want the initial and running phases to get you to the targets proximity. You have time to compensate in needed. You want to be in position for the terminal maneuvering to put you in the desired relational position/velocity (which may be specific such as the classic airplane fighter scheme where you want the target to be in arc of your forward firing guns while avoiding approaching within the arc(s) of the targets guns).

If the target can detect your approach and take evasive maneuvers you would prefer to have a versatile 'position' so as to be able to compensate with high probability of achieving the 'delivery' position/course.

Knowledge about the targets max acceleration and endurance help plan 'best' solutions (which often are not 'optimal' due to the uncertainties of the targets possible moves).

Newtonian physic can require maneuvers like S curves or even figure 8 type repeated attack passes.

Another planning factor can be trying to make your own course less predictable - depending on what defensive actions can be taken (ie- defensive missiles which have their own movement properties).

Of course combination movements of multiple targets/projectiles vastly increases that tactics potential (and the difficulty of plamming).

Terrain is a possibility (ie- planetary bodies, gravity wells, asteroid fields) and can be an additional complication.

[Edited by - wodinoneeye on May 9, 2009 5:01:16 AM]