An Explicit Symplectic Integrator for Cometary Orbits

A new symplectic algorithm is developed for cometary orbit integrations. The integrator can handle both high-eccentricity orbits and close encounters with planets. The method is based on time transformations for Hamiltonians separated into Keplerian and perturbation parts. The adaptive time-step of this algorithm depends on the distance from a centre and the magnitude of perturbations. The explicit leapfrog technique is simple and efficient.