Polysynchronous constellation design

US9932131B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• The Boeing Company · US

Inventors

• John M. (Michael) McVicker · Rochelle, US
• Peterson L. Browning · El Segundo, US
• Robert Hawkins · Hermosa Beach, US
• Brendan C. Schmiedekamp · Redondo Beach, US
• Robert H. Van Nice · El Segundo, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Feb 17, 2016
• Grant date: Apr 3, 2018
• Expiry date: May 26, 2036

Classification

• Technology area (CPC B): Performing Operations; Transporting
• CPC primary: B64G1/242
• WIPO field: Transport
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for determining orbital parameters for spacecraft are provided. A computing device can receive a first plurality of orbital parameters defining a first orbit by a first spacecraft of a particular object. The first orbit can have a corresponding first ground track over the particular object. The computing device can receive a following time for a second spacecraft. The computing device can determine a second plurality of orbital parameters for a second orbit by the second spacecraft of the particular object based on the first plurality of orbital parameters and the following time. The second orbit can have a corresponding second ground track over the particular object that follows the first ground track. The computing device can generate an output that includes the second plurality of orbital parameters.