Algorithm for Relative Navigation and Control Systems for Closely Spaced Satellite in a Group

Abstract

The problem of providing the fastest two-way communication between two or several points on the Earth's surface is considered. The transport delay and the cost of such a connection should be minimal. To solve this problem as an intermediate point to be used a group of small and cheap enough satellites moving at low orbit. This article discusses the problem of gathering a group in orbit, stabilizing it, measuring relative distances and orientations. To reduce the cost of the system, it is expected to use the cheapest and therefore not very accurate, relative coordinate measures. To ensure acceptable accuracy, it is proposed to use a specially developed adaptive filtering algorithm based on the analysis of the spectral density of the updating sequence. The estimates of the navigation parameters obtained in this way are used to form the optimal terminal control of the motion by the center of mass of the active satellite. Miniature engines create the control forces. The theoretical results are confirmed by simulation.