GEO Mapping Satellite Drift for Collision Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
GEO class satellites face challenges in maintaining continuous communication due to perturbations from the Earth, Moon, and Sun, and are at risk from collisions with untracked objects in orbit, which is costly and requires significant propellant for station-keeping and collision avoidance.
Innovation Solution
Deploying one or more mapping satellites in a GEO class orbit equipped with sensors for object detection and tracking, and utilizing natural orbital perturbations instead of thrusters for station-keeping, allowing the satellites to drift and increase their mapping radius, thereby reducing propellant usage and enhancing collision avoidance capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GEO class satellites perform North/South station-keeping to maintain communication, then communication continuity is improved, but propellant consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs collision avoidance maneuvers in advance by detecting potential collision risks and executing avoidance actions before the actual collision threat materializes. This preliminary action allows the satellite to maintain its designated box position without continuous propellant-consuming station-keeping, as the avoidance maneuver is timed to coincide with natural orbital drift rather than fighting against it continuously
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of continuous station-keeping, the patent employs periodic collision risk assessments and executes avoidance maneuvers only when necessary. The satellite periodically evaluates its position relative to the designated box and potential collision risks, performing station-keeping actions only at discrete intervals when required, rather than maintaining constant correction
2Stability of the object's composition
If mapping satellites perform North/South station-keeping to maintain fixed position, then mapping coverage consistency is improved, but mapping accuracy from different aspect angles decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent intentionally allows mapping satellites to drift North and South of their designated box positions, converting a static positioning approach into a dynamic one. This controlled drift enables the satellite to view objects from varying aspect angles over time, improving mapping accuracy while still maintaining operational coverage of the GEO region
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the orbital parameters of mapping satellites by allowing inclination variations as they drift North and South. By permitting changes in the satellite's positional parameters rather than maintaining fixed values, the system achieves better mapping accuracy through diverse viewing angles while preserving adequate coverage consistency
3Reliability
If individual satellite operators perform object detection and tracking, then collision avoidance capability is improved, but cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the object detection and tracking functions into a centralized system operated by a single entity (such as a space situational awareness organization) rather than requiring each satellite operator to maintain independent detection systems. Multiple satellites share the centralized tracking data, allowing all operators to benefit from comprehensive collision avoidance capabilities without each individual bearing the full cost and complexity of independent detection systems
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enables real-time monitoring and accurate mapping of GEO class objects, allowing for timely and fuel-efficient collision-avoidance maneuvers, while extending the operational life of the satellites by conserving propellant.
Implementation Method 1
exploiting the natural orbital perturbations that occur instead of counteracting these forces with the use of thrusters and propellant
Implementation Method 2
one or more sensors for the detection and tracking of space objects, such as radar, LiDAR, or other sensors
Implementation Method 3
one or more sensors for the detection and tracking of space objects, such as radar, LiDAR, or other sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for mapping and modeling objects in GEO (geosynchronous) class orbits using one or more mapping satellites in conjunction with a ground-based system that will effectively map objects, model object orbits, and provide real-time monitoring, alerts, and real-time data to satellite operators for collision avoidance and situational awareness.