Dynamics analysis of satellite cluster non‐coplanar orbit transfer based on geometric method

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to propose strategies for satellite cluster non‐coplanar orbit transfer to reduce fuel cost of formation maintenance and orbit maneuver.Design/methodology/approachThis research tries to use geometric method model to describe the relative motion of satellites in the cluster non‐coplanar orbit transfer, and genetic algorithm (GA) to optimize the proposed maneuver strategies.FindingsCompared with the C‐W equations, the geometric method model is found to be more precise. Three strategies are proposed and optimized to maintain the relative orbit and a strategy of indefinite phase and non‐synchronous costs least fuel.Practical implicationsGeometric method model can be used to describe the relative motion of satellite cluster, especially on elliptical orbits considering the effects of perturbation, with a simple form and good accuracy. Fuel cost minimization is one of the most important issues in formation flight mission.Originality/valueThis paper provides dynamics analysis about formation non‐coplanar orbit transfer, which is involved in minor researches.