Efficient stationkeeping strategy for the three apogee (TAP) orbit
US10364051B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 15, 2016 |
| Grant date | Jul 30, 2019 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 14, 2037 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/411
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A stationkeeping strategy for a satellite disposed in a TAP orbit includes controlling parameters of the orbit such that, for a constellation of two satellites disposed in the orbit, the constellation provides substantially continuous coverage of a polar region. The stationkeeping strategy includes one or more of: establishing an initial Right Ascension of Ascending Node (RAAN) of the operational orbit such that naturally caused orbital drift results in a mid-life RAAN of approximately 0 degrees (360 degrees); and controlling Argument of Perigee (ARGP), only indirectly, by performing orbit maintenance maneuvers only to directly control one or more of the operational orbit apogee altitude, the operational orbit perigee altitude, and inclination within a respective required range.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.