Session
Weekday Session 6: Orbital Debris, SSA & STM/Propulsion
Location
Utah State University, Logan, UT
Abstract
Precise orbit determination technologies are an increasingly important enabler for the validation of critical in-space satellite propulsion systems. Advanced maneuvers require precise knowledge of impulse to optimize operations related to rendezvous, docking, in-orbit refueling, debris removal, formation flying and optical intersatellite-links optimization. These applications can benefit greatly from enhanced knowledge of the precise position of the satellite performing the work, and the precise position of the target. Thruster-intensive missions benefit from this ability to optimize thruster use and calculate and optimize actual fuel use.
The authors have combined these technologies to offer a precision 6DOF cold-gas propulsion solution with simultaneous, real time enhanced position/velocity accuracy. In this paper, we present the case for a mission where positioning technology matching Fugro's POD service is used for in-orbit validation of a CubeSat equipped with a propulsion system matching the specifications of GomSpace's 6DOF cold-gas technology. The case study outlines a set of operations that constitute a test campaign for successful in-orbit technology demonstration.
The paper concludes with a discussion on how this combination of technologies can be used in advanced missions for in-orbit docking, refueling, cross-link communications optimization and debris capture.
Optimization of Propulsion Systems With Real-Time Precise Orbit Determination Technology to Enable Proximity Operations and Advanced Mission Capabilities
Utah State University, Logan, UT
Precise orbit determination technologies are an increasingly important enabler for the validation of critical in-space satellite propulsion systems. Advanced maneuvers require precise knowledge of impulse to optimize operations related to rendezvous, docking, in-orbit refueling, debris removal, formation flying and optical intersatellite-links optimization. These applications can benefit greatly from enhanced knowledge of the precise position of the satellite performing the work, and the precise position of the target. Thruster-intensive missions benefit from this ability to optimize thruster use and calculate and optimize actual fuel use.
The authors have combined these technologies to offer a precision 6DOF cold-gas propulsion solution with simultaneous, real time enhanced position/velocity accuracy. In this paper, we present the case for a mission where positioning technology matching Fugro's POD service is used for in-orbit validation of a CubeSat equipped with a propulsion system matching the specifications of GomSpace's 6DOF cold-gas technology. The case study outlines a set of operations that constitute a test campaign for successful in-orbit technology demonstration.
The paper concludes with a discussion on how this combination of technologies can be used in advanced missions for in-orbit docking, refueling, cross-link communications optimization and debris capture.
