Orbit Acquisition and Station-Keeping in Sun-Synchronous Orbit Using Solar Radiation Pressure

摘要

This paper introduces a practical and low-cost method of orbit acquisition and station-keeping in Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO) by using solar radiation pressure (SRP). The proposed method uses a fixed solar sail (or kite) on the satellite to take advantage of the solar radiation pressure over the orbit. We study this concept on the basis of a standardized small satellite bus (QSAT) concept which is being developed in Kyushu University. After introducing a few simplifying assumptions, we can analytically predict the effect on the semi-major axis, eccentricity, and other orbital elements. In this study, we propose an implementation for a space weather observation mission with a series of small satellites in a constellation in SSO. After the insertion of satellites into the same SSO by one launcher as a first stage of the constellation, we can change the position of each satellite by controlling its attitude. This paper focuses on the strategy of orbit acquisition and station-keeping after the orbit insertion. The analytical model and the results of the simulations are presented in the paper.