Modeling Satellite Formations In The Presence Of Perturbations

The potential benefits of autonomous satellite formation flying in such areas as high- resolution remote sensing, and sparse aperture radar, has stimulated interest in modeling the satellite environment for feasibility and simulation studies to help explore and define the technical challenges that must be solved in order to achieve successful autonomous satellite formations. The purpose of this paper is to develop and describe a numerical simulation of the orbital environment including central force field perturbations and atmospheric drag effects which will be a useful analytical tool for investigating issues relating to maintaining satellite formations in low-earth-orbit. Many of the studies done in this area confine their research to circular orbits, with and without perturbation effects. This study will investigate apply orbital dynamic equations to the problem of maintaining satellite formations in both circular and elliptical orbits, with and without the presence of J2 gravity perturbation effects and atmospheric drag. This effort is primarily focused on modeling the orbital mechanics of one and two satellites in the presence of J2 and drag perturbations This effort is being performed as part of a multi-disciplined University of Central Florida KnightSat project, sponsored by the Air Force, to develop a two-satellite formation in the nanosatellite class, for investigating issues related to using formation satellites for remote earth sensing, to develop three-dimensional mapping.

Author dc:creator

• Cannaday, Robert

Contributors dc:contributor

• Johnson, Roger

• formations
• satellites
• perturbations
• controller
• Aerospace Engineering
• Engineering

Language dc:language

English

Identifier

CFE0000898

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:stars.library.ucf.edu:etd-1536