Mission analysis for PROBA-3 nominal operations

Abstract

This paper reports the phase B mission analysis work performed for the nominal operations of the PROBA-3 formation flying mission. PROBA-3 will perform formation flying in a highly elliptical orbit, and perform Solar coronagraphy and formation maneuvering demonstrations in a 6h region around apogee. This paper addresses the nominal orbit and the initial deployment of the formation and focuses on feasibility and ΔV requirements, including trade-offs between alternatives. Challenging constraints are the absence of an omnidirectional sensor, and the requirement that the spacecraft cannot turn more than 30° away from the Sun due to thermal and power constraints.