Small Satellite Formations in Resonant Orbits
- Paper number
IAC-05-E2.1.09
- Author
Ms. Kathryn O'Donnell, Surrey Space Centre, University of Surrey, United Kingdom
- Coauthor
Dr. Philip L. Palmer, Surrey Space Centre, University of Surrey, United Kingdom
- Year
2005
- Abstract
A novel analytical description is presented of near-circular satellite motion in resonance with a single, dominant tesseral harmonic of a gravitational field. The model has been designed to be sufficiently accurate for use in orbit determination yet computationally concise enough for implementation on-board small satellites. Unlike more traditional, mathematically rigorous approaches, the orbit description has a relatively simple geometric interpretation, making it ideal for use as a mission analysis tool. A full derivation of the model, to first order accuracy in J2, is given for arbitrary inclination about any rotating primary under the ideal resonance assumption. The output of an absolute orbit propagator based on the model is compared to highly accurate numerical integrations of comparable orbits about the Earth, both for the ideal resonance case and for a full 36 x 36 Geopotential model. The results indicate that the model easily meets design accuracy. Its suitability for implementation in an on-board orbit estimator for the new generation of small GEO satellites is also briefly addressed including methods of incorporating other significant orbit perturbations into the model. The geometric simplicity of the resonance model is then exploited to characterise the effects of resonance on small satellite formations. LEO and MEO resonant orbits of interest are identified according to strength at varying inclination, and possible formation geometries of interest are identified according to the satellite positions in phase space. The resonant orbit propagator is used to generate absolute orbits for each satellite in a resonant formation of interest and the relative motion is analysed using a spherical relative co-ordinate system designed to minimise linearisation effects in the analysis. Previous work addressing resonance effects on satellite formations has been limited to simply identifying the characteristic oscillatory motion if encountered. The results of this analysis, however, are used to ascertain whether resonance effects could be apparent in satellite formations and the conditions under which they are likely to be encountered. Potential advantages and disadvantages of resonant oscillatory motion on such missions are also discussed.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-05-E2.1.09.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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