Beyond GEO — using elliptical orbit constellations to multiply the space real estate
2002; Elsevier BV; Volume: 51; Issue: 1-9 Linguagem: Inglês
10.1016/s0094-5765(02)00036-x
ISSN1879-2030
AutoresJohn Draim, Richard Inciardi, Ron Proulx, Paul Cefola, David Carter, Duane E. Larsen,
Tópico(s)Spacecraft Design and Technology
ResumoIn order to avoid mutual electronic interference between GEO satellites, the international regulatory bodies have allocated them to ‘slots’ separated by roughly 2 degrees in longitude. By contrast, no such standardization yet exists for the newer non-geostationary (NGSO) constellations. As a consequence, the widely differing periods, inclinations, and phasing for such disparate NGSO systems creates the prospect of hundreds, if not thousands, of electronic interferences per day. This paper describes research done by the authors on multi-satellite systems to maximize the number of non-interfering NGSO satellite positions possible, through optimal spacing, phasing and adjustment of their orbital parameters. In essence, all the satellites in such a system are flying in formation, maintaining separation from each other both in-track and cross track, as well as separation from all GEO satellites. Using these orbits, we can create a total of 2880 non-interfering, active arc satellite positions. A variant array based on these active arcs creates a time-phased, closed path, teardrop shaped ground trace, which provides high elevation angle coverage to mid- and high-latitude users. In the future, these systems may prove valuable in relieving the present saturation in GEO space, where there are virtually no remaining GEO slots available at any price.
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