Methods and systems for deploying satellite constellations
US10807739B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 8, 2017 |
| Grant date | Oct 20, 2020 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 25, 2038 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G1/643
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A satellite system may have a constellation of communications satellites in orbits such as highly inclined eccentric geosynchronous orbits and low earth orbits. To place satellites in inclined eccentric geosynchronous orbits, a series of launch vehicles may be launched. Each launch vehicle may be used to place a set of satellites, such as a set of three satellites, into a common orbital plane with distinct longitude of ascending node values. To place satellites in low earth orbits, a series of launch vehicles may be launched, each of which releases satellites in sequence from a stack of satellites into a common orbital plane. After desired separations have been produced between the released satellites, circularization procedures may be performed using the propulsion systems of the satellites to place the satellites into final orbit.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.