Design methodology for a multi-satellite global continuous observation system of the Earth

Abstract

The article considers approaches to the selection of design parameters of a multi-satellite space system for global continuous monitoring of the Earth. The objective of this research is to develop a method for determining the optimal parameters of a multi-satellite space system for global continuous monitoring of the Earth. Firstly, existing space-based observing systems of the Russian Federation and foreign multi-satellite space-based observing systems were analysed, secondly, the requirements for multi-satellite systems of global continuous monitoring of the Earth's surface were considered, thirdly, the main restrictions imposed by the technical capabilities of the ground segment and on-board equipment of the observing spacecraft were identified, and finally, a design problem for the synthesis of a multi-satellite space system for global continuous monitoring of the Earth's surface is formulated, taking into account the restrictions of the geographical location of ground receiving stations as well as the inter-satellite communications. As a result, a method of designing a multi-satellite space system for global continuous monitoring of the Earth was proposed.