Navigation Solutions for the Repeated-Intercept Mission with Constrained Maneuver Time

Abstract

This paper provides navigation solutions to perform the repeated-intercept mission with a constrained time of maneuver. The repeated-intercept (flyby) mission can be performed by a small, highly maneuverable microsatellite designed to fly past a target satellite at high relative velocity. Because of non-Keplerian orbital perturbations, the microsatellite must perform a small maneuver at or shortly after the intercept to adjust its orbit to permit another intercept approximately one revolution later. During the course of that orbit the microsatellite uses midcourse guidance and terminal guidance to refine its trajectory and the intercept geometry. Themission repeats, allowing the microsatellite to image the target satellite from various angles and under multiple lighting conditions, providing an on-orbit inspection capability without matching orbital planes. This paper presents a strategy for selection of the magnitude and direction of the initial maneuver to provide the greatest number of flyby opportunities within constrained budgets of time and fuel.