Satellite transfer orbit search methods

Abstract

Satellite transfer orbit search methods are described herein. One disclosed example method includes determining, based on boundary transfer orbits of a satellite, end points of an oblate epicycloid segment related to a transfer orbit of the satellite, and calculating, using a processor, a shape of the oblate epicycloid segment based on satellite data and the end points to define a search zone to determine a position of the satellite as the satellite moves along the transfer orbit.

Description

technical field [0001] The present application generally relates to search methods, and more particularly, to satellite transfer orbit search methods. Background technique [0002] Some known satellite tracking systems employ space surveillance sensors, such as the Space Surveillance Network (SSN), to acquire or retrieve satellites or resident space objects that have been relocated (e.g., relocated) from an initial orbit to a final orbit along a transfer orbit (RSO) location information. Uncertainty in the time and location of the initial transfer maneuver typically results in uncertainty in the position or location of the satellite during the transfer orbit. Typically, guardianship (eg, position awareness) of a satellite is lost after a transfer maneuver is initiated, and subsequently regained after the satellite makes a final maneuver to enter a final orbit. Space surveillance sensors looking for satellites typically conduct searches that are uncoordinated and rely on li...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Current search methods often result in low usage of sensor resources due to sensor coverage areas that do not represent the location of the satellites that do not cover the location in which the satellites are located, and / or uncoordinated search attempts between sensors, resulting in overlapping coverage scope

The resulting uncertainty results in significant delays in regaining custody of the satellite and waiting hours or days before the position of the satellite is known

[0003] additionally, it is difficult to determine the location of satellites owned or operated by uncooperative entities, or satellites that have lost communication

Typically, it can take several hours to track the position of these satellites based on known search methods

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