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Researchers at the Beijing Institute of Technology have developed an innovative method for designing satellite mega constellations aimed at enhancing low Earth orbit (LEO) observations. This new approach divides the constellation into two types of satellites: basic satellites and accompanying satellites, forming groups that are evenly distributed around the globe.
The design method focuses by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Aug 06, 2024
Researchers at the Beijing Institute of Technology have developed an innovative method for designing satellite mega constellations aimed at enhancing low Earth orbit (LEO) observations. This new approach divides the constellation into two types of satellites: basic satellites and accompanying satellites, forming groups that are evenly distributed around the globe.
The design method focuses on ensuring that each basic satellite orbits the Earth a specified number of times within a set number of days while considering gravitational perturbations. This results in a highly efficient arrangement of satellites that cover the Earth's surface uniformly.
The process involves calculating the number of orbital planes needed based on the ground coverage width of a satellite group and determining the number of satellites per orbital plane based on the mission's maximum response time.
Role of Accompanying Satellites
Accompanying satellites orbit alongside the basic satellites, maintaining relative positions that form elliptical trajectories. Their arrangement ensures that imaging and observation tasks are carried out efficiently, covering more ground with fewer gaps.
Optimization and Simulation for Precision
To achieve the most effective configuration, the researchers used advanced algorithms to optimize the orbits. This involved a detailed iterative process to minimize differences in orbital nodes and maintain precise relative positions over time.
Numerical simulations validated the method, using specific parameters such as an orbital inclination of 66 , zero eccentricity, and a regression coefficient of 15. The simulation demonstrated rapid convergence towards optimal configurations, ensuring stable and reliable satellite operations.
Impressive Simulation Results
The simulation results were notable, with a final constellation consisting of 891 satellites. Of these, 81 basic satellites were each surrounded by 10 accompanying satellites, providing comprehensive coverage of areas outside the polar regions within a 35-minute timeframe.
The study confirms that this new design method for satellite mega constellations can significantly improve LEO observation capabilities, offering a robust and efficient solution for global satellite coverage.
Research Report:Configuration Design Method of Mega Constellation for Low Earth Orbit Observation
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