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[8.02] The HNBody Package for Symplectic Integration of Nearly-Keplerian Systems

K.P. Rauch, D.P. Hamilton (UMD)

HNBody is a new set of software utilities geared to the integration of hierarchical (nearly-Keplerian) N-body systems. Our focus is on symplectic methods, and we have included explicit support for three classes of particles (heavy, light, and massless), second and fourth order methods, post-Newtonian corrections, and the use of a symplectic corrector (among other things). For testing purposes, we also provide support for more general integration schemes (Bulirsch-Stoer & Runge-Kutta). Configuration files employing an intuitive syntax allow for easy problem setup, and many simple simulations can be done without the user compiling any code. Low-level interfaces are also available, enabling extensive customization. We summarize the current status of the package and demonstrate its capabilities using problems from Solar System dynamics. DPH acknowledges support from NSF Career Grant AST 9733789.

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Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 34, #3
© 2002. The American Astronomical Society.