Planning device, planning method, observation system, and planning program

Abstract

To formulate an observation plan and a transmission plan that enable the earliest acquisition of observation data.SOLUTION: A planning device 100 formulates an observation plan and a transmission plan. An observation opportunity calculation unit 120 calculates observation opportunities, including observation times during which observation coordinates can be observed, on the basis of the observation coordinates and an ephemeris of an observation satellite. A transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 calculates observation command transmission opportunities during which an observation command 41 can be uplinked to the observation satellite prior to the observation opportunity on the basis of the observation time, ephemeris and a communication possible range in the observation satellite. The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 also calculates the earliest observation data transmission opportunity during which the observation data obtained through the observation can be downlinked after the observation opportunity. The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 stores the observation opportunity as the observation plan, and the observation command transmission opportunity and observation data transmission opportunity as the transmission plan in a storage unit 160.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a planning device, a planning method, an observation system, and a planning program, and more particularly to a technology for generating an observation plan and a transmission plan, which is used in an observation system that observes observation coordinates by an observation satellite. [Background technology]

[0002] In an observation system, observation coordinates input as an observation request are observed by one or more observation satellites. After obtaining an observation request, the observation system requires technology to generate an observation plan and a transmission plan for downlinking the observation data observed by the observation satellites as quickly as possible. The observation system uplinks observation commands to the observation satellite before observation, and downlinks observation data from the observation satellite after observation. To perform such an operation, the observation system first selects an observation satellite, an uplink transmission path, and a downlink transmission path. Then, the observation system formulates an observation plan, an uplink transmission plan, and a downlink transmission plan. The observation system transmits commands to the uplink transmission path, the observation satellite, and the downlink transmission path in advance according to the formulated plan. These commands are called uplink transmission path commands, observation commands, and downlink transmission path commands. The uplink transmission path, the observation satellite, and the downlink transmission path each carry out operation according to each command. The observation satellite, the uplink transmission path, and the downlink transmission path each set up communication devices according to each command, and perform transmission after securing communication lines.

[0003] Conventionally, various methods for formulating observation plans for observation satellites according to observation requests have been considered. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a method for identifying a satellite that can observe observation coordinates most quickly from among multiple satellites, and for quickly performing observation in an emergency using the identified satellite. However, there is no description of the selection of an uplink transmission path or a downlink transmission path. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4719658 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In recent years, satellite orbits have become more diverse, and the number of observation satellites with various orbital inclination angles is increasing. In addition, many downlink stations for downlinking observation data have been established, and it has become necessary to select a downlink station from among them. Due to these circumstances, even if observations could be carried out at the earliest possible time, it took time to downlink the observation data, and it was not always possible to downlink the observation data at the earliest possible time. In addition, there were cases where there was no opportunity to uplink observation commands to the satellite that could perform the earliest observation, preventing the satellite from capturing images.

[0006] The present disclosure aims to provide an observation plan and a transmission plan that has an opportunity to uplink an observation command so as to observe observation coordinates from among multiple observation satellites, and that can downlink observation data most quickly. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A planning device according to the present disclosure is a planning device that plans an observation plan for observation of an observation coordinate by an observation satellite and a transmission plan for data transmission to the observation satellite, the planning device comprising: an observation opportunity calculation unit that calculates an observation opportunity including an observation time at which the observation coordinates can be observed, based on the observation coordinates and an orbital ephemeris including an orbit of the observation satellite and a time at which the observation satellite passes a point on the orbit; a transmission opportunity calculation unit that calculates, before the observation opportunity, an observation command transmission opportunity at which an observation command for observing the observation coordinates at the observation time can be uplinked to the observation satellite based on the observation time, the orbital ephemeris, and a communication range of the observation satellite, and calculates the earliest observation data transmission opportunity at which observation data obtained by observation can be downlinked after the observation opportunity, sets the observation opportunity as the observation plan, and stores the observation command transmission opportunity and the observation data transmission opportunity as the transmission plan in a storage unit; Equipped with. Effect of the Invention

[0008] In the planning device according to the present disclosure, an observation opportunity calculation unit calculates an observation opportunity for observing observation coordinates. A transmission opportunity calculation unit calculates an uplink transmission opportunity before the observation opportunity at which an observation command can be uplinked, and a downlink transmission opportunity at the earliest time at which observation data can be downlinked after the observation opportunity. Then, the transmission opportunity calculation unit sets the observation opportunity as an observation plan, and stores the observation command transmission opportunity and the observation data transmission opportunity as a transmission plan in the storage unit. Thus, the planning device according to the present disclosure has an effect of being able to provide an observation plan and a transmission plan in which there is an opportunity to uplink an observation command so that observation coordinates can be observed, and in which observation data can be downlinked at the earliest possible time. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a planning device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of an observation system. [Diagram 3] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing another example of the operation of the observation system. [Figure 4] 3 is a flow diagram showing a planning process performed by the planning device according to the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an observation opportunity list according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of observation and transmission opportunity information according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] 4 is a flow diagram showing an observation opportunity calculation process performed by the planning device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] 4 is a detailed flow diagram showing a transmission opportunity calculation process performed by the planning device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] 4 is a detailed flow diagram showing a transmission opportunity calculation process performed by the planning device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a planning device according to a modification of the first embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] The present embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding parts are given the same reference numerals. In the description of the embodiment, the description of the same or corresponding parts will be omitted or simplified as appropriate. The arrows in the drawings mainly indicate the flow of data or the flow of processing.

[0011] Embodiment 1 ***Configuration Description*** FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a planning device 100 according to the present embodiment. The planning device 100 is a computer. The planning device 100 includes a processor 910 and other hardware such as a memory 921, an auxiliary storage device 922, an input interface 930, an output interface 940, and a communication interface 950. The processor 910 is connected to the other hardware via signal lines and controls the other hardware.

[0012] The planning device 100 includes, as functional elements, a reception unit 110, an observation opportunity calculation unit 120, a transmission opportunity calculation unit 130, a plan determination unit 140, an output unit 150, and a storage unit 160. The storage unit 160 stores satellite information 161 , transmission path information 162 , observation requests 163 , an observation opportunity list 164 , observation and transmission opportunity information 165 , observation commands 41 , uplink commands 42 , and downlink commands 43 .

[0013] The functions of the reception unit 110, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130, the plan determination unit 140, and the output unit 150 are realized by software. The storage unit 160 is provided in the memory 921. The storage unit 160 may be provided in the auxiliary storage device 922, or may be provided in a distributed manner in the memory 921 and the auxiliary storage device 922.

[0014] The processor 910 is a device that executes a planning program. The planning program is a program that realizes the functions of the reception unit 110, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130, the plan determination unit 140, and the output unit 150. The processor 910 is an IC that performs arithmetic processing. Specific examples of the processor 910 are a CPU, a DSP, and a GPU. IC is an abbreviation for Integrated Circuit. CPU is an abbreviation for Central Processing Unit. DSP is an abbreviation for Digital Signal Processor. GPU is an abbreviation for Graphics Processing Unit.

[0015] The memory 921 is a storage device that temporarily stores data. Specific examples of the memory 921 are SRAM and DRAM. SRAM is an abbreviation for Static Random Access Memory. DRAM is an abbreviation for Dynamic Random Access Memory. The auxiliary storage device 922 is a storage device that stores data. A specific example of the auxiliary storage device 922 is a HDD. The auxiliary storage device 922 may also be a portable storage medium such as an SD (registered trademark) memory card, CF, NAND flash, a flexible disk, an optical disk, a compact disk, a Blu-ray (registered trademark) disk, or a DVD. Note that HDD is an abbreviation for Hard Disk Drive. SD (registered trademark) is an abbreviation for Secure Digital. CF is an abbreviation for CompactFlash (registered trademark). DVD is an abbreviation for Digital Versatile Disk.

[0016] The input interface 930 is a port connected to an input device such as a mouse, a keyboard, or a touch panel. Specifically, the input interface 930 is a USB terminal. The input interface 930 may be a port connected to a LAN. USB is an abbreviation for Universal Serial Bus. LAN is an abbreviation for Local Area Network.

[0017] The output interface 940 is a port to which a cable of an output device such as a display is connected. Specifically, the output interface 940 is a USB terminal or an HDMI (registered trademark) terminal. Specifically, the display is an LCD. The output interface 940 is also called a display interface. HDMI (registered trademark) is an abbreviation for High Definition Multimedia Interface. LCD is an abbreviation for Liquid Crystal Display.

[0018] The communication interface 950 is an interface for communicating with an external device, and specific examples of the communication interface 950 include an Ethernet (registered trademark), USB, and HDMI (registered trademark) port.

[0019] The planning program is executed in the planning device 100. The planning program is read into the processor 910 and executed by the processor 910. In addition to the planning program, the OS is also stored in the memory 921. The OS is an abbreviation for Operating System. The processor 910 executes the planning program while executing the OS. The planning program and the OS may be stored in the auxiliary storage device 922. The planning program and the OS stored in the auxiliary storage device 922 are loaded into the memory 921 and executed by the processor 910. Note that a part or all of the planning program may be incorporated in the OS.

[0020] The planning device 100 may include a plurality of processors that replace the processor 910. These plurality of processors share the execution of the planning program. Each of the processors is a device that executes the planning program, similar to the processor 910.

[0021] Data, information, signal values ​​and variable values ​​used, processed or output by the planning program are stored in memory 921, secondary storage device 922, or in registers or cache memory within the processor 910.

[0022] The "parts" of the reception unit 110, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130, the plan determination unit 140, and the output unit 150 may be read as "circuits," "steps," "procedures," "processing," or "circuitry." The planning program causes a computer to execute a reception process, an observation opportunity calculation process, a transmission opportunity calculation process, a plan determination process, and an output process. The "processing" of the reception process, the observation opportunity calculation process, the transmission opportunity calculation process, the plan determination process, and the output process may be read as a "program," "program product," "a computer-readable storage medium storing a program," or a "computer-readable recording medium recording a program." The planning method is a method performed by the planning device 100 executing the planning program. The planning program may be provided in a state stored in a computer-readable recording medium. Also, the planning program may be provided as a program product.

[0023] ***Operational Overview of Observation System 500*** 2 and 3, an example of operation of an observation system 500 in which observation coordinates 40 input as an observation request are observed by one or more observation satellites 10 will be described.

[0024] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the operation of the observation system 500. The observation satellite 10 is an observation satellite moving in orbit. The orbital ephemeris 1-1 is the orbital ephemeris of the observation satellite 10. The observable range 1-2 is the observable range of the observation satellite 10. The uplink transmission path 20 is a transmission path for uplinking data to the observation satellite 10. The uplink transmission path 20 enables uplink from the uplink station 2-1 to the observation satellite 10 present in the uplink range 2-11. The downlink transmission path 30 is a transmission path for downlinking data from the observation satellite 10. The downlink transmission path 30 enables downlinking from the observation satellite 10 present in the downlink range 3-11 to the downlink station 3-1. The planning device 100 is a device that plans an observation plan and a transmission plan. The observation coordinates 40 are the coordinates of an observation target input as an observation request.

[0025] The observation satellite 10 is identified by time as uplink time (Tup), observation time (Tcap), and downlink time (Tdown). The uplink command is a command for operating the uplink station 2-1 so that transmission between the uplink station 2-1 and the observation satellite 10 is possible. The uplink command is also called an uplink transmission path command. The uplink command includes a control for directing the uplink station 2-1 to the observation satellite 10. The downlink command is a command for operating the downlink station 3-1 so that transmission between the downlink station 3-1 and the observation satellite 10 is possible. The downlink command is also called a downlink transmission path command. The downlink command includes a control for directing the downlink station 3-1 to the observation satellite 10.

[0026] The planning device 100 calculates the opportunity for the observation satellite 10 to observe the observation coordinates 40. It calculates the time (Tcap) when the observation coordinates 40 will enter the observable range 1-2, and determines the observation time. Then, the planning device 100 generates an observation command for the observation satellite 10 to observe the observation coordinates 40 at the observation time. The planning device 100 transmits the observation command to the observation satellite 10 before the observation time (Tcap), thereby enabling observation.

[0027] Furthermore, the planning device 100 generates an uplink command and a downlink command. The uplink possible range 2-11 indicates the range in which transmission is possible when the uplink station 2-1 is pointed in the direction of the observation satellite 10. Uplink becomes possible at the time (Tup) when the observation satellite 10 enters this uplink possible range 2-11. The planning device 100 generates an uplink command to perform uplink at this time (Tup).

[0028] The downlink possible range 3-11 indicates the range in which transmission is possible when the downlink station 3-1 is pointed in the direction of the observation satellite 10. Downlink becomes possible at the time (Tdown) when the observation satellite 10 enters this downlink possible range 3-11. The planning device 100 generates a downlink command to perform downlink at this time (Tdown).

[0029] In this way, by transmitting commands at appropriate times to the observation satellite 10, the uplink transmission path 20, and the downlink transmission path 30, the observation system 500 operates according to the commands. The observation command is transmitted to the observation satellite 10. The uplink command is transmitted to the uplink transmission path 20. The downlink command is transmitted to the downlink transmission path 30. This makes it possible to downlink data observed by the observation satellite 10 at the observation coordinates 40. Because the downlink of observation data requires high-speed communication, the observation satellite 10 often transmits the data using a directional antenna. Therefore, by including in the observation command a command to point the antenna of the observation satellite 10 toward the downlink station 3-1, the antenna of the observation satellite 10 is directed toward the downlink station 3-1 at the downlink time (Tdown). On the other hand, when the observation satellite 10 receives an observation command, such as during an uplink, the command data is small and does not require high communication speed. For this reason, the observation satellite often uses an omnidirectional antenna, that is, an antenna that can receive from either direction but is not suitable for high-speed communication. Therefore, there is no need to orient the antenna on the observation satellite side. In addition, since the uplink station or downlink station is not dedicated to a single unit but is used for general purposes, the command also includes information necessary for communication, such as settings determined for each observation satellite being communicated with.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing another example of the operation of the observation system 500. In FIG. FIG. 3 illustrates a case where relay satellites are used for the uplink transmission path 20 and the downlink transmission path 30. The uplink transmission path 20 includes an uplink relay satellite 2-2 and an uplink station 2-1. The downlink transmission path 30 includes a downlink relay satellite 3-2 and a downlink station 3-1.

[0031] A communication line is always established between the uplink relay satellite 2-2 and the uplink station 2-1, and between the downlink relay satellite 3-2 and the downlink station 3-1. The uplink possible range 2-11 indicates the range in which transmission is possible when the uplink relay satellite 2-2 is pointed in the direction of the observation satellite 10. Uplink becomes possible at the time (Tup) when the observation satellite 10 enters this range. Because downlinking observation data requires high-speed communication, the observation satellite 10 often transmits using a directional antenna. Therefore, by including in the observation command a command to point the antenna of the observation satellite 10 toward the downlink relay satellite 3-2, the antenna of the observation satellite 10 is pointed toward the downlink relay satellite 3-2 at the downlink time (Tdown). In addition, since the uplink station or downlink station is not dedicated to a single unit but is used for general purposes, the command also includes information necessary for communication, such as settings determined for each communicating satellite. In FIG. 2, only the configurations of the uplink transmission path and the downlink transmission path are different from those in FIG. 1, and the operation contents are basically the same, so the explanation will be omitted.

[0032] ***Explanation of Operation*** Next, an operation of the planning device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described. The operation procedure of the planning device 100 corresponds to a planning method. Also, a program for realizing the operation of the planning device 100 corresponds to a planning program.

[0033] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram showing the planning process by the planning device 100 according to this embodiment. The planning device 100 is a device that plans an observation plan 31 for observation of an observation coordinate system 40 by an observation satellite 10 and a transmission plan 32 for data transmission to and from the observation satellite 10 .

[0034] (Step S11 in FIG. 4: Reception process) The receiving unit 110 receives an input of an observation request via the communication interface 950. The receiving unit 110 writes the received observation request 163 in the storage unit 160. An observation request includes information indicating one or more observation coordinates. In addition, the observation request includes a desired observation time for each observation coordinate. The desired observation time has a certain range.

[0035] (Step S12 in FIG. 4: Observation opportunity calculation process) In the observation opportunity calculation process, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120 calculates an observation opportunity including an observation time when the observation coordinates can be observed, based on the observation coordinates and an orbital ephemeris including the orbit of the observation satellite and the time when the observation satellite passes through a point on the orbit. Specifically, the following applies:

[0036] The observation opportunity calculation unit 120 reads the observation request 163 accepted in step S11 from the storage unit 160. The observation opportunity calculation unit 120 also reads the satellite information 161 from the storage unit 160. The satellite information 161 includes information indicating the orbital history and observable range for each of the multiple observation satellites. The orbital history is information indicating the orbit of the observation satellite and the time when it passes each point. The observable range is, for example, the range observable by an observation sensor equipped on the observation satellite.

[0037] The observation opportunity calculation unit 120 calculates the observation opportunity at which the observation coordinates can be observed based on the observation coordinates, the orbital ephemeris of the observation satellite, and the observable range of the observation sensor. The observation opportunity calculation unit 120 writes the observation opportunity calculated for each observation coordinate together as an observation opportunity list 164 in the storage unit 160.

[0038] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the observation occasion list 164 according to this embodiment. The observation opportunity list 164 includes information on observation coordinates, observation times, and observation satellites identified as observation opportunities. As shown in Fig. 5, there may be multiple observation opportunities for one observation coordinate.

[0039] (Step S13 in FIG. 4: Transmission opportunity calculation process) In the transmission opportunity calculation process, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 calculates an observation command transmission opportunity at which an observation command can be uplinked before an observation opportunity. At this time, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 calculates the observation command transmission opportunity based on the observation time, orbital ephemeris, and the communication range of the observation satellite. The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 also calculates the earliest observation data transmission opportunity at which observation data can be downlinked after the observation opportunity based on the observation time, orbital ephemeris, and the communication range. The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 then sets the observation opportunity as the observation plan 31, and stores the observation command transmission opportunity and the observation data transmission opportunity as the transmission plan 32 in the storage unit 160. The observation command is a command for the observation satellite 10 to observe the observation coordinates 40 at the observation time. The observation data is data obtained by observation of observation coordinates 40 by an observation satellite 10. Specifically, the following applies:

[0040] The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 reads out the observation opportunity list 164 calculated in step S12 from the storage unit 160. The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 reads out the satellite information 161 from the storage unit 160. The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 reads out the transmission path information 162 from the storage unit 160. The transmission path information 162 is information related to a transmission path. The transmission path information 162 includes information indicating available transmission means. The available transmission means includes available communication methods and available time information.

[0041] The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 calculates, for each observation coordinate, a transmission route that is available for uplink and can be used before the observation time in the order of the earliest observation time in the observation opportunity list 164. The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 calculates a transmission route that is available for uplink and can be used before the observation time as an observation command transmission opportunity, using the satellite information 161 and the transmission route information 162. Next, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 calculates a transmission route that is available for downlink and can be used earliest after observation as an observation data transmission opportunity. The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 calculates a transmission route that is available for downlink and can be used earliest after observation, using the satellite information 161 and the transmission route information 162. The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 sets an observation opportunity having an observation command transmission opportunity and an observation data transmission opportunity for each observation coordinate as an observation plan 31, and stores the observation command transmission opportunity and the observation data transmission opportunity as a transmission plan 32 in the memory unit 160. The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 writes the observation plan and the transmission plan in the memory unit 160 as observation and transmission opportunity information 165.

[0042] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the observation and transmission opportunity information 165 according to this embodiment. The observation and transmission opportunity information 165 includes information on the observation coordinates, the observation time, the observation satellite, the uplink transmission path, and the downlink transmission path. The observation coordinates, the observation time, and the observation satellite indicate an observation plan. The uplink transmission path and the downlink transmission path indicate a transmission plan.

[0043] (Step S14 in FIG. 4: Plan determination process) In the plan determination process, the plan determination unit 140 generates an observation command 41 based on the observation plan 31. The plan determination unit 140 also generates an uplink command 42 and a downlink command 43 based on the transmission plan 32. The uplink command 42 is a command for uplinking the observation command 41 via an uplink transmission path. The downlink command 43 is a command for downlinking the observation data through a downlink transmission path. Specifically, the following applies:

[0044] The plan determination unit 140 reads out the observation and transmission opportunity information 165 from the storage unit 160. The plan determination unit 140 generates an observation command 41, an uplink command 42, and a downlink command 43 based on the read observation and transmission opportunity information 165. The observation command 41 is a command for observation by an observation satellite. The uplink command 42 is a command for establishing a transmission path for an uplink. The downlink command 43 is a command for establishing a transmission path for a downlink. The plan determination unit 140 writes out the observation command 41 , the uplink command 42 , and the downlink command 43 to the storage unit 160 .

[0045] (Step S15 in FIG. 4: Output process) The output unit 150 reads out the observation command 41, the uplink command 42, and the downlink command 43 generated in step S14 from the storage unit 160. The output unit 150 outputs the read observation command 41, the uplink command 42, and the downlink command 43 to an output device such as a display device or a printer via the communication interface 950. Alternatively, the output unit 150 may output an observation command 41 to the observation satellite 10 via the communication interface 950 and operate the observation satellite 10 according to the observation command 41. Moreover, the output unit 150 may output an uplink command 42 to the uplink transmission path 20 via the communication interface 950 and operate the uplink transmission path 20 according to the uplink command 42. Moreover, the output unit 150 may output a downlink command 43 to the downlink transmission path 30 via the communication interface 950 and operate the downlink transmission path 30 according to the downlink command 43.

[0046] FIG. 7 is a detailed flow diagram showing the observation opportunity calculation process by the planning device 100 according to this embodiment. The observation opportunity calculation process according to this embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

[0047] In the observation opportunity calculation process, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120 acquires an observation request including a desired observation time for observing the observation coordinates, and calculates an observation opportunity at an observation time within the range of the desired observation time. The observation opportunity calculation unit 120 calculates a plurality of observation opportunities corresponding to the observation coordinates as the observation opportunity. The observation opportunity calculation unit 120 then stores the plurality of observation opportunities in the storage unit 160 as an observation opportunity list 164. Specifically, the following applies:

[0048] In step S101, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120 reads the observation request 163 from the storage unit 160, and acquires the observation coordinates and the desired observation time. In step S102, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120 reads out the satellite information 161 from the storage unit 160, and acquires the orbital ephemeris and the observable range of the observation sensor. In step S103, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120 calculates an observation opportunity based on the geometric relationship of the observation coordinates, the orbital ephemeris, and the observable range of the observation sensor, at the desired observation time. The observation opportunity includes information on the observation coordinates, the observation satellite, and the observation time. In step S 103 , the observation opportunity calculation unit 120 calculates the observation opportunities for all observation satellites 10 as described above, and writes the results into the storage unit 160 as an observation opportunity list 164 . In this way, since the time when the observation satellite will arrive is determined by the orbital ephemeris, the observation opportunity calculation process calculates, as observation opportunities, for example, multiple observation satellites that can be imaged within the range of the desired observation time. Then, the observation opportunities are written to the storage unit 160 as an observation opportunity list 164.

[0049] 8 and 9 are detailed flow charts showing the transmission opportunity calculation process by the planning device 100 according to this embodiment. The transmission opportunity calculation process according to the present embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 determines an observation plan by solving a combinatorial optimization problem with constraints.

[0050] In the transmission opportunity calculation process, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 calculates an observation command transmission opportunity for each observation coordinate in the observation opportunity list 164. At this time, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 determines whether or not an observation command transmission opportunity exists as a result of the observation command transmission opportunity calculation process, and if an observation command transmission opportunity exists, calculates an observation data transmission opportunity. Specifically, the following applies:

[0051] In step S201, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 reads the observation opportunity list 164 from the storage unit 160. In step S202, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 sorts the observation opportunities in the observation opportunity list 164 in order of observation time, and places a pointer at the earliest observation opportunity. The processes from step S202 to step S215 are performed for each observation coordinate. In step S202, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 arranges the observation opportunities for each observation coordinate in order of observation time, and places a pointer on the earliest observation opportunity. For example, if there are observation opportunities for observing observation coordinate A 10 times within a certain period, these observation opportunities are arranged in order of earliest time and processed. For another observation coordinate, the same process is performed for that observation coordinate. In step S203, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 sets the fastest download time to a sufficiently late time.

[0052] In step S204, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 compares the observation time of the observation opportunity where the pointer is placed with the fastest download time. If the observation time is later than the earliest download time, the process proceeds to step S215. If the observation time is not later than the earliest download time, the process proceeds to step S205.

[0053] In step S205, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 reads out the satellite information 161 from the storage unit 160. In addition, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 reads out the transmission path information 162 from the storage unit 160. The transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 calculates a transmission opportunity for an observation command in an observation satellite where a pointer is placed, using satellite information 161 and transmission route information 162. Specifically, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 calculates, based on the orbital ephemeris of the observation satellite where a pointer is placed, a transmittable route that allows uplink at a time earlier than the observation time from the transmission route information 162, as an observation command transmission opportunity.

[0054] In step S206, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 determines whether or not there is an opportunity to transmit the observation command. If there is no transmission path capable of uplink, that is, if there is no opportunity to transmit an observation command, the process proceeds to step S213. This is because if there is no transmission path capable of uplink, the observation command cannot be uplinked, and therefore the observation opportunity cannot be used.

[0055] In step S207, if a plurality of transmission paths capable of uplinking the observation command are confirmed, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 selects the transmission path with the earliest time. If multiple transmission routes are available for uplinking the observation command, it does not matter which route is used. However, in this case, we will select the route with the earliest time, assuming that another observation request will be handled in the future.

[0056] In step S208, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 calculates a transmittable route that allows downlink after observation as an observation data transmission opportunity, based on the orbital ephemeris of the observation satellite on which the pointer is placed.

[0057] In step 209, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 selects the earliest available transmission route for downlink. Therefore, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 can calculate the earliest available transmission route by tracing the orbital ephemeris of the observation satellite after observation. Once the calculation is completed, the process proceeds to the next step.

[0058] In step S210, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 checks whether the downlink time when the transmission route available for downlink selected in step S209 is selected is earlier than the fastest download time. If it is later than the fastest downlink time, the process proceeds to step S213. If it is not later than the fastest downlink time, the process proceeds to step S211.

[0059] In step S211, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 sets the observation opportunity, and the observation command transmission opportunity and observation data transmission opportunity corresponding to the observation opportunity as plan candidates of the observation plan and the transmission plan. The plan candidates are also called observation plan transmission plan candidates. As described above, the observation command transmission opportunity corresponding to the observation opportunity is the transmission route selected in step S207 for uplink, and the observation data transmission opportunity corresponding to the observation opportunity is the transmission route selected in step S209 for downlink.

[0060] In step S212, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 updates the fastest download time to the downlink time on the transmission path selected in step S209 for which downlink is possible.

[0061] In step S213, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 checks whether the observation opportunity list 164 contains the next observation opportunity. If there is a next observation opportunity, the process proceeds to step S214. If there is no next observation opportunity, the process proceeds to step S215.

[0062] In step S214, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 advances the pointer of the observation opportunity list 164 by one, and returns to step S204.

[0063] In step S215, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130 writes the observation plan and the transmission plan candidates into the storage unit 160 as observation and transmission opportunity information 165. In this manner, in the transmission opportunity calculation process, the presence or absence of an uplink opportunity and the time of a downlink opportunity are confirmed in order of the earliest observation opportunity in the observation opportunity list 164. Then, the earliest downlink opportunity and the observation opportunity at that time are selected.

[0064] ***Other configurations*** In this embodiment, the functions of the reception unit 110, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130, the plan determination unit 140, and the output unit 150 are realized by software. As a modified example, the functions of the reception unit 110, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130, the plan determination unit 140, and the output unit 150 may be realized by hardware. Specifically, the planning device 100 includes an electronic circuit 909 instead of the processor 910 .

[0065] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration of a planning device 100 according to a modified example of the present embodiment. The electronic circuit 909 is a dedicated electronic circuit that realizes the functions of the reception unit 110, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130, the plan determination unit 140, and the output unit 150. Specifically, the electronic circuit 909 is a single circuit, a composite circuit, a programmed processor, a parallel programmed processor, a logic IC, a GA, an ASIC, or an FPGA. GA is an abbreviation for Gate Array. ASIC is an abbreviation for Application Specific Integrated Circuit. FPGA is an abbreviation for Field-Programmable Gate Array.

[0066] The functions of the reception unit 110, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130, the plan determination unit 140, and the output unit 150 may be realized by a single electronic circuit, or may be distributed across multiple electronic circuits.

[0067] As another modified example, some of the functions of the reception unit 110, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130, the plan determination unit 140, and the output unit 150 may be realized by electronic circuits, and the remaining functions may be realized by software. Also, some or all of the functions of the reception unit 110, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130, the plan determination unit 140, and the output unit 150 may be realized by firmware.

[0068] Each of the processor and the electronic circuit is also called a processing circuitry. That is, the functions of the reception unit 110, the observation opportunity calculation unit 120, the transmission opportunity calculation unit 130, the plan determination unit 140, and the output unit 150 are realized by the processing circuitry.

[0069] ***Explanation of the Effects of the Present Embodiment*** As described above, the planning device according to the present embodiment calculates observation opportunities for observing observation coordinates. The planning device then calculates observation command transmission opportunities that allow uplink for the calculated observation opportunities, and calculates the earliest observation data transmission opportunity that allows downlink among the observation opportunities for which observation command transmission opportunities exist. As a result, the planning device according to the present embodiment can create observation plans and transmission plans that allow the earliest observation data to be available. Furthermore, in this embodiment, it is possible to create an observation plan and a transmission plan for an observation satellite from among a plurality of observation satellites that can observe observation coordinates, has an opportunity to uplink observation commands, and can downlink observation data most quickly.

[0070] In the above-mentioned first embodiment, each unit of the planning device has been described as an independent functional block. However, the configuration of the planning device does not have to be the same as that of the above-mentioned embodiment. The functional blocks of the planning device are merely an example, and any configuration may be used as long as the functions described in the above-mentioned embodiment can be realized. Furthermore, the planning device may not be a single device, but may be a system composed of multiple devices. In addition, a plurality of parts of the first embodiment may be combined and implemented. Alternatively, only one part of this embodiment may be implemented. In addition, this embodiment may be combined in any manner as a whole or in part and implemented. That is, in the first embodiment, the embodiments can be freely combined, or any of the components in each embodiment can be modified, or any of the components in each embodiment can be omitted.

[0071] The above-described embodiment is essentially a preferred example, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure, the scope of application of the present disclosure, and the scope of use of the present disclosure. The above-described embodiment can be modified in various ways as necessary. For example, the procedure described using a flow chart or sequence chart may be modified as appropriate.

[0072] Various aspects of the present disclosure are summarized below as appendices.

[0073] (Appendix 1) 1. A planning device that plans an observation plan for observation of an observation coordinate by an observation satellite and a transmission plan for data transmission to and from the observation satellite, comprising: an observation opportunity calculation unit that calculates an observation opportunity including an observation time at which the observation coordinates can be observed, based on the observation coordinates and an orbital ephemeris including an orbit of the observation satellite and a time at which the observation satellite passes a point on the orbit; a transmission opportunity calculation unit that calculates, before the observation opportunity, an observation command transmission opportunity at which an observation command for observing the observation coordinates at the observation time can be uplinked to the observation satellite based on the observation time, the orbital ephemeris, and a communication range of the observation satellite, and calculates the earliest observation data transmission opportunity at which observation data obtained by observation can be downlinked after the observation opportunity, sets the observation opportunity as the observation plan, and stores the observation command transmission opportunity and the observation data transmission opportunity as the transmission plan in a storage unit; A planning device comprising: (Appendix 2) The observation opportunity calculation unit Calculating a plurality of observation opportunities corresponding to the observation coordinates as the observation opportunities, and storing the plurality of observation opportunities in a storage unit as an observation opportunity list; The transmission opportunity calculation unit, 2. The planning device of claim 1, wherein the observation command transmission opportunity is calculated for each of the observation coordinates in the observation opportunity list. (Appendix 3) The transmission opportunity calculation unit, 3. The planning device according to claim 2, wherein the planning device calculates, for each of the observation coordinates in the observation opportunity list, the earliest time at which the observation command can be uplinked as the observation command transmission opportunity. (Appendix 4) The transmission opportunity calculation unit, 4. The planning device according to claim 2, further comprising: a calculation process for calculating an observation command transmission opportunity for each of the observation coordinates in the observation opportunity list; a determination as to whether or not the observation command transmission opportunity exists; and, if the observation command transmission opportunity exists, a calculation process for calculating the observation data transmission opportunity. (Appendix 5) The planning device includes: 5. The planning device according to claim 1, wherein the planning device generates the observation commands based on the observation plan, and generates, based on the transmission plan, uplink commands for uplinking the observation commands via an uplink transmission path, and downlink commands for downlinking the observation data via a downlink transmission path. (Appendix 6) The observation opportunity calculation unit 6. The planning device according to claim 1, further comprising: a planning request including a desired observation time for observing the observation coordinates; and a calculation of the observation opportunity at the observation time within a range of the desired observation time. (Appendix 7) An observation system including an observation satellite and a planning device that plans an observation plan for observation of an observation coordinate by the observation satellite and a transmission plan for data transmission to and from the observation satellite, The planning device includes: an observation opportunity calculation unit that calculates an observation opportunity including an observation time at which the observation coordinates can be observed, based on the observation coordinates and an orbital ephemeris including an orbit of the observation satellite and a time at which the observation satellite passes a point on the orbit; a transmission opportunity calculation unit that calculates, before the observation opportunity, an observation command transmission opportunity at which an observation command for observing the observation coordinates at the observation time can be uplinked to the observation satellite based on the observation time, the orbital ephemeris, and a communication range of the observation satellite, and calculates the earliest observation data transmission opportunity at which observation data obtained by observation can be downlinked after the observation opportunity, sets the observation opportunity as the observation plan, and stores the observation command transmission opportunity and the observation data transmission opportunity as the transmission plan in a storage unit; Equipped with The observation satellite, An observation system that performs observations for the observation coordinates in accordance with the observation plan and the transmission plan. (Appendix 8) 1. A planning method for use in a planning device that plans an observation plan for observation of an observation coordinate by an observation satellite and a transmission plan for data transmission to and from the observation satellite, comprising: a computer calculates an observation opportunity including an observation time when the observation coordinates can be observed based on the observation coordinates and an orbital ephemeris including an orbit of the observation satellite and a time when the observation satellite passes a point on the orbit; a computer calculates, based on the observation time, the orbital ephemeris, and the communication range of the observation satellite, an observation command transmission opportunity before the observation opportunity at which an observation command for observing the observation coordinates at the observation time can be uplinked to the observation satellite, and calculates the earliest observation data transmission opportunity at which observation data obtained by observation can be downlinked after the observation opportunity, the computer sets the observation opportunity as the observation plan, and stores the observation command transmission opportunity and the observation data transmission opportunity as the transmission plan in a memory unit. (Appendix 9) A planning program used in a planning device that plans an observation plan for observation of an observation coordinate by an observation satellite and a transmission plan for data transmission to the observation satellite, comprising: an observation opportunity calculation process for calculating an observation opportunity including an observation time at which the observation coordinates can be observed, based on the observation coordinates and an orbital ephemeris including an orbit of the observation satellite and a time at which the observation satellite passes a point on the orbit; a transmission opportunity calculation process for calculating, before the observation opportunity, an observation command transmission opportunity capable of uplinking an observation command for observing the observation coordinates at the observation time to the observation satellite based on the observation time, the orbital ephemeris, and a communication range of the observation satellite, and calculating an observation data transmission opportunity at the earliest time capable of downlinking observation data obtained by observation after the observation opportunity, setting the observation opportunity as the observation plan, and storing the observation command transmission opportunity and the observation data transmission opportunity as the transmission plan in a storage unit; A planning program that causes the planning device, which is a computer, to execute the above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0074] 10 Observation satellite, 20 Uplink transmission path, 30 Downlink transmission path, 31 Observation plan, 32 Transmission plan, 40 Observation coordinates, 41 Observation command, 42 Uplink command, 43 Downlink command, 1-1 Orbit history, 1-2 Observable range, 2-1 Uplink station, 2-2 Uplink station, 2-11 Uplink possible range, 3-1 Downlink station, 3-2 Downlink station, 3-11 Downlink possible range, 100 Planning device, 110 Reception unit, 120 Observation opportunity calculation unit, 130 Transmission opportunity calculation unit, 140 Planning decision unit, 150 Output unit, 160 Memory unit, 161 Satellite information, 162 Transmission path information, 163 Observation request, 164 Observation opportunity list, 165 Observation and transmission opportunity information, 500 Observation system, 909 Electronic circuit, 910 Processor, 921 Memory, 922 auxiliary storage device, 930 input interface, 940 output interface, 950 communication interface.

Claims

1. 1. A planning device that plans an observation plan for observation of an observation coordinate by an observation satellite and a transmission plan for data transmission to and from the observation satellite, comprising: an observation opportunity calculation unit that calculates an observation opportunity including an observation time at which the observation coordinates can be observed, based on the observation coordinates and an orbital ephemeris including an orbit of the observation satellite and a time at which the observation satellite passes a point on the orbit; a transmission opportunity calculation unit that calculates, before the observation opportunity, an observation command transmission opportunity at which an observation command for observing the observation coordinates at the observation time can be uplinked to the observation satellite based on the observation time, the orbital ephemeris, and a communication range of the observation satellite, and calculates the earliest observation data transmission opportunity at which observation data obtained by observation can be downlinked after the observation opportunity, sets the observation opportunity as the observation plan, and stores the observation command transmission opportunity and the observation data transmission opportunity as the transmission plan in a storage unit; A planning device comprising:

2. The observation opportunity calculation unit, Calculating a plurality of observation opportunities corresponding to the observation coordinates as the observation opportunities, and storing the plurality of observation opportunities in a storage unit as an observation opportunity list; The transmission opportunity calculation unit, The planning device according to claim 1 , wherein the observation command transmission opportunity is calculated for each of the observation coordinates in the observation opportunity list.

3. The transmission opportunity calculation unit, 3. The planning device according to claim 2, wherein the observation command transmission opportunity is calculated as the earliest time at which the observation command can be uplinked for each of the observation coordinates in the observation opportunity list.

4. The transmission opportunity calculation unit, 4. The planning device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, for each observation coordinate in the observation opportunity list, it is determined whether or not an observation command transmission opportunity exists as a result of the calculation process of the observation command transmission opportunity, and if the observation command transmission opportunity exists, the observation data transmission opportunity is calculated.

5. The planning device includes:

4. A planning device as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, which generates the observation commands based on the observation plan, and generates, based on the transmission plan, an uplink command for uplinking the observation commands via an uplink transmission path, and a downlink command for downlinking the observation data via a downlink transmission path.

6. The observation opportunity calculation unit, 4. The planning device according to claim 1, wherein an observation request including a desired observation time for observing the observation coordinates is acquired, and the observation opportunity is calculated at the observation time within a range of the desired observation time.

7. An observation system including an observation satellite and a planning device that plans an observation plan for observation of an observation coordinate by the observation satellite and a transmission plan for data transmission to and from the observation satellite, The planning device includes: an observation opportunity calculation unit that calculates an observation opportunity including an observation time at which the observation coordinates can be observed, based on the observation coordinates and an orbital ephemeris including an orbit of the observation satellite and a time at which the observation satellite passes a point on the orbit; a transmission opportunity calculation unit that calculates, before the observation opportunity, an observation command transmission opportunity at which an observation command for observing the observation coordinates at the observation time can be uplinked to the observation satellite based on the observation time, the orbital ephemeris, and a communication range of the observation satellite, and calculates the earliest observation data transmission opportunity at which observation data obtained by observation can be downlinked after the observation opportunity, sets the observation opportunity as the observation plan, and stores the observation command transmission opportunity and the observation data transmission opportunity as the transmission plan in a storage unit; Equipped with The observation satellite, An observation system that performs observations for the observation coordinates in accordance with the observation plan and the transmission plan.

8. 1. A planning method for use in a planning device that plans an observation plan for observation of an observation coordinate by an observation satellite and a transmission plan for data transmission to and from the observation satellite, comprising: a computer calculates an observation opportunity including an observation time when the observation coordinates can be observed based on the observation coordinates and an orbital ephemeris including an orbit of the observation satellite and a time when the observation satellite passes a point on the orbit; a computer calculates, based on the observation time, the orbital ephemeris, and the communication range of the observation satellite, an observation command transmission opportunity before the observation opportunity at which an observation command for observing the observation coordinates at the observation time can be uplinked to the observation satellite, and calculates the earliest observation data transmission opportunity at which observation data obtained by observation can be downlinked after the observation opportunity, the computer sets the observation opportunity as the observation plan, and stores the observation command transmission opportunity and the observation data transmission opportunity as the transmission plan in a memory unit.

9. A planning program used in a planning device that plans an observation plan for observation of an observation coordinate by an observation satellite and a transmission plan for data transmission to the observation satellite, comprising: an observation opportunity calculation process for calculating an observation opportunity including an observation time when the observation coordinates can be observed, based on the observation coordinates and an orbital ephemeris including an orbit of the observation satellite and a time when the observation satellite passes a point on the orbit; a transmission opportunity calculation process for calculating, before the observation opportunity, an observation command transmission opportunity capable of uplinking an observation command for observing the observation coordinates at the observation time to the observation satellite based on the observation time, the orbital ephemeris, and a communication range of the observation satellite, and calculating an observation data transmission opportunity at the earliest time capable of downlinking observation data obtained by observation after the observation opportunity, setting the observation opportunity as the observation plan, and storing the observation command transmission opportunity and the observation data transmission opportunity as the transmission plan in a storage unit; A planning program that causes the planning device, which is a computer, to execute the above.

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