Space Mission Analysis & design for tactical spacecraft

Abstract

In an attempt to avoid the financial hurdle imposed by the physical constraints on objects orbiting in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), it is preferred to use High Elliptical Orbit (HEO) for broader coverage. It takes a huge amount of energy to be put objects in HEO. To provide similar benefits at a very low cost, the ‘Special Orbit’ was offered as an alternate. This paper examines the usability of launching a Hybrid control enabled multiple payload micro satellite in to elliptical orbit. The perigee and apogee distances are modified so that the orbital period is 1/3 of a day instead of 12 hours. This orbit provides the benefits of both low and medium altitudes. In addition to this the orbit doesn't require any onboard liquid fuel or thrusters as there is no orbit manoeuvres required in its mission time. Ground Simulations are done for various initial conditions and time of availability over targets is evaluated.