Optimal constellation design based on satellite ground tracks for Earth observation missions

Abstract

In this study, we propose an optimal constellation determination method for Earth observation satellites. First, orbit requirements for the interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) observation are mathematically formulated. From these requirements, we can obtain nadir trajectories (ground tracks) of the chief satellites of the constellation. The optimal constellation determination problem is modeled as a multi-objective mixed integer programming problem. Then, a metaheuristic optimization method is applied to the resultant problem to optimize the number and configuration of satellite ground tracks and orbital planes. The proposed method enables us to design optimal satellite constellation configurations according to the mission conditions such as the observation area and the acceptable altitude range.