Satellite system and method for circumpolar latitudes
US9344182B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 30, 2011 |
| Grant date | May 17, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 15, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB64G3/00
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The present invention relates to satellite systems and more particularly, to the provision of a satellite system for weather and climate monitoring, communications applications, and scientific research at higher latitudes, referred to as the circumpolar region and defined here as the area with latitudes greater than 60°, in either the northern hemisphere or the southern hemisphere. Contrary to the teachings in the art it has been discovered that a satellite system and method may be provided using satellites in 24 sidereal hour orbits (geosynchronous) with inclinations (70° to 90°), orbital planes, right ascensions and eccentricities (0.275-0.45) chosen to optimize coverage of a particular service area located at high latitudes. A constellation of two satellites can provide continuous coverage of the circumpolar region. The satellites in this orbit avoid most of the Van Allen Belts.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.