Nanosatellite Constellation Operational Network Ground Segment Analysis

Abstract

With the ever-increasing capabilities of the smallest remote sensing satellites, a serious bottleneck is encountered at the space-ground interface. While the satellites are capable of collecting data, downlinking said data is not always straightforward. Analysis of the satellite orbits show that the most beneficial downlink station locations can be found in the polar region. This article introduces the reader to the typical Earth observation orbits, their effects on the data communication periods and describes a possible nanosatellite operational radiocommunication network.