Grand Challenges in Space Technology: Distributed Satellite Systems

Author(s):  
David W. Miller ◽  
Raymond J. Sedwick
Author(s):  
Teodor Narytnik ◽  
Vladimir Saiko

The technical aspects of the main promising projects in the segments of medium and low-orbit satellite communication systems are considered, as well as the project of the domestic low-orbit information and telecommunications system using the terahertz range, which is based on the use of satellite platforms of the micro- and nanosatellite class and the distribution of functional blocks of complex satellite payloads more high-end on multiple functionally related satellites. The proposed system of low-orbit satellite communications represents the groupings of low-orbit spacecraft (LEO-system) with the architecture of a "distributed satellite", which include the groupings of the root (leading) satellites and satellite repeaters (slaves). Root satellites are interconnected in a ring network by high-speed links between the satellites. The geometric size of the “distributed satellite” is the area around the root satellite with a radius of about 1 km. The combination of beams, which are formed by the repeater satellites, make up the service area of the LEO system. The requirements for the integrated service area of the LEO system (geographical service area) determine the requirements for the number of distributed satellites in the system as a whole. In the proposed system to reduce mutual interference between the grouping of the root (leading) satellites and repeater satellites (slaves) and, accordingly, minimizing distortions of the information signal when implementing inter-satellite communication, this line (radio channel) was created in an unlicensed frequency (e.g., in the terahertz 140 GHz) range. In addition, it additionally allows you to minimize the size of the antennas of such a broadband channel and simplify the operation of these satellite systems.


This paper considers those aspects of space technology which must be brought together into a system to carry educational programmes. The required levels of technology are achievable, but in such systems the space sector cost is much less than that of the ground sector, and an economic and effective system must optimize the spacecraft design in conjunction with the ground transmitters and particularly the large number of receiving stations. The implications of hybrid video systems are examined, incorporating fixed picture presentations, thus economizing on band-width demands, as alternatives to the use of normal television. A critical aspect of the educational system operation is likely to be the production of the software comprising the programmes. The implications of, and requirements for, these are discussed. Finally, the technical and logistic operational problems of a typical system are explored, emphasizing the critical relationship of design and serviceability of all elements of the system, and indicating the importance of planning adequate servicing and operational facilities.


2018 ◽  
pp. 20-35
Author(s):  
Эрик Александрович Лапханов ◽  
Александр Сергеевич Палий

The purpose of the present paper is the analysis of current tasks concerning with creation and deorbiting of the formation flying groups consist of nano- and picosatellites and the consideration of the possibility of using permanent magnet devices for the deorbiting of these groups. During research was determined that it is most expedient to use small standardized spacecraft and use them during the development of distributed satellite systems. It can be both formations, and groups of satellites spaced a long distance. The analysis of the current possibilities for the removal of nano- and pico- spacecraft into orbit is carried out. According to the characteristics and properties of super-small spacecraft because of their super-small size and saving of the rocket fuel, it was determined that these spacecrafts proposed to be launch as a passing payload when large, expensive spacecraft is launched into orbit.  To facilitate the integration of spacecrafts such as CubeSats with a carrier rocket, special multi-purpose dispensers were developed. The problems of controlling the configuration of the nano- and pico- satellites formations are shown. The analysis of deorbiting technologies of spacecrafts of the nano- and pico- satellites is carried out. The overview of modern well-known propulsion technologies of nano- and pico- satellites is carried out. The new method of creation and deorbiting of the formation flying groups from nano- and pico- satellites with using new constructive scheme “spherical dispensers” was proposed. The main axes of P-PODs are located along the radiuses of “spherical dispenser”. The technology of deploying and “clotting “of the formation flying groups from nano- and pico- satellites with using tether connection and hoist devices was proposed. The analysis of the possibility of implementation of devices with permanent magnets for nano- and pico- satellites is carried out. The low boundaries of effective work of the magnetic devices were determined. An alternative method for deorbiting nano- and pico- spacecrafts with the help of devices with permanent magnets using “clotting “technology is proposed


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