Operational Methodology for Large-Scale Deployment of Nanosatellites into Low Earth Orbit

摘要

The on-orbit deployment of large numbers of nanosatellites is cast in terms of the relative motion equations, augmented with differential drag. Using this framework, a methodology is developed for minimizing the likelihood of recontact or interference among the deployed nanosatellites. This approach is applied to a representative test case derived from the Operationally Responsive Space Office's Launch Enabler Mission, which delivered 28 small payloads to orbit in 2013. By strategically varying the deployment order, timing, and launch vehicle attitude, the net separation among each of the nanosatellites is demonstrated for the first three weeks with minimal close approaches. These results are validated using high-fidelity simulations.