Session
Technical Session VI: Mission Operations
Abstract
The ORBCOMM system is the world's first commercial LEO two-way data communications system. The ORBCOMM system, when fully deployed, will use a constellation of small satellites to provide users with low-cost near-continuous data relay and position determination services on a seamless worldwide basis. Due to the large number of spacecraft, and the need to keep operational costs low, automation will play a significant role in the operation of the ORBCOMM constellation. This paper discusses the principle operational functions needed to maintain the ORBCOMM satellites, and the design process for detennining the degree of automation for each.
Automating the Operations of the ORBCOMM Constellation
The ORBCOMM system is the world's first commercial LEO two-way data communications system. The ORBCOMM system, when fully deployed, will use a constellation of small satellites to provide users with low-cost near-continuous data relay and position determination services on a seamless worldwide basis. Due to the large number of spacecraft, and the need to keep operational costs low, automation will play a significant role in the operation of the ORBCOMM constellation. This paper discusses the principle operational functions needed to maintain the ORBCOMM satellites, and the design process for detennining the degree of automation for each.
