The sabres project: constellation of microsatellites for automated meter reading and other non-real time communication services

摘要

One of the main fields in satellite business is Little LEO (Low Earth Orbit) Messaging Services. One of the most promising uses for such systems is automated meter reading - collection and distribution of small portions of data from various sources over large areas. The primary objective of SABRES was to design a constellation of microsatellites (up to 75 kg), with the ability to monitor thousands of such devices, spread globally. The design solution detailed in the paper presents a system of 8 satellites spread along 2 circular LEO orbits and 3 ground stations, with UHF and VHF communication (based on international standards), able to access more than 200,000 users each day, with at least 50% of a dailymonitored users. In addition to the main mission, the satellites are designed to perform measurements of Earth's magnetic field as a secondary, scientific mission. According to requirements for low cost and 5-years operation, risk mitigation, reliability analysis and total project cost estimation were performed.