Multi-objective optimisation of constellation deployment using low-thrust propulsion

Carlo, Marilena Di and Ricciardi, Lorenzo and Vasile, Massimiliano (2016) Multi-objective optimisation of constellation deployment using low-thrust propulsion. In: AIAA/AAS Astrodynamics Specialist Conference, 2016. AIAA Space Forum . American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Inc, AIAA, Reston, VA. ISBN 9781624104459

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Abstract

This work presents an analysis of the deployment of future constellations using a com-bination of low-thrust propulsion and natural dynamics. Different strategies to realise the transfer from the launcher injection orbit to the constellation operational orbit are investigated. The deployment of the constellation is formulated as a multi-objective optimisation problem that aims at minimising the maximum transfer ΔV, the launch cost and maximise at the same time the pay-off given by the service provided by the constellation. The paperwill consider the case of a typical constellation with 27 satellites in Medium Earth Orbit and the use of only two launchers, one of which can carry a single satellite. It will be demonstrated that some strategies and deployment sequences are dominant and provide the best trade-off between peak transfer ΔV and monetary pay-off.