Towards the automated operations of large distributed satellite systems. Part 2: Classifications and tools |
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Authors: | Mohamed Khalil Ben-Larbi Kattia Flores Pozo Mirue Choi Tom Haylok Benjamin Grzesik Andreas Haas Dominik Krupke Harald Konstanski Volker Schaus Sándor P Fekete Christian Schurig Enrico Stoll |
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Institution: | 1. Technische Universität Braunschweig, Institute of Space Systems, Hermann-Blenk-Str.23, 38108 Braunschweig, Germany;2. Technische Universität Braunschweig, Institute of Operating Systems and Computer Networks, Mühlenpfordtstraße 23, 38106 Braunschweig, Germany;3. Planet Labs Germany GmbH, Kurfürstendamm 22, 10719 Berlin, Germany;4. European Space Operation Centre (ESOC), Robert-Bosch-Straße 5, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany |
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Abstract: | Recent developments have seen a trend towards larger constellations of spacecraft, with some proposals featuring constellations of more than 10.000 satellites. While similar concepts for large constellations already existed in the past, traditional satellite deployments hardly ever feature groups of more than 100 satellites. This trend towards considerably larger satellite numbers originates from non-traditional design and operations of spacecraft by non-traditional space companies. The evolution in the space sector, precipitated by new players, is often referred to as “Space 4.0” or “New Space”. It necessitates a rethinking of the way satellites and satellite constellations are planned, designed, and operated. New operational paradigms are needed to enable automatic, optimal task definition, and scheduling in a holistic approach.This is the second of two companion papers that investigate the operations of distributed satellite systems. This second article investigates the classification of distributed satellite systems and evaluates commercial tools for automated spacecraft operations, whereas the first article performed a survey of conventional and “new space”operations of spacecraft constellations.Classification metrics for constellations are derived and evaluated with respect to their informative value concerning the operation, the automation, and the scalability of the constellation. The proposed classification system is applied to the Dove and RapidEye constellation and allows for a comparison between the presented automation approaches. Commercial tools for automated spacecraft operations are evaluated for several mission task elements, such as orbit control, orbit maintenance, and collision avoidance. Subsequently, the trends, benefits, and standardization needs for operational automation are identified. |
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Keywords: | Satellite constellations Spacecraft operation Automation of spacecraft operations New space Classification of constellations COTS tools for spacecraft operations |
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