Low inclination circular orbits for remote sensing satellites

Karim Kamalaldin, Mohamed Okasha

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

3 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This paper investigates the design methodology of low Earth inclined circular orbits for remote sensing satellites to satisfy certain mission requirements and constrains such as coverage, resolution, illumination conditions and attitude maneuvers capabilities. Although sun synchronous orbit (SSO) proved to be a good candidate for most remote sensing applications due to its constant lighting conditions and global coverage, low inclined orbits are distinguished by long ground track especially if the target area of concern has horizontal rectangular border. With that respect, low inclined orbits may lead to improvement of the satellite imaging accessibility to the target area per day or reduction of satellite revisit time compared to SSO. This paper exploits these characteristics for low inclined orbits. The target area considered in simulation is between 22° and 32° N latitude lines with 2.5 m ground sample resolution. The satellite maximum rolling capability is 35° and the sun elevation angle is constrained between 30° and 70° for purpose of maximizing the quality of the obtained images. Matlab and STK software are employed to define the initial orbital parameters to meet these conditions for a low inclined orbit.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationAEROTECH V
Subtitle of host publicationProgressive Aerospace Research
EditorsFairuz I. Romli, D.L. Majid, Faizal Mustapha, Fairuz I. Romli, D.L. Majid, Faizal Mustapha, Renuganth Varatharajoo, Fairuz I. Romli, Kamarul Arifin Ahmad, D.L. Majid, Faizal Mustapha, Renuganth Varatharajoo, Fairuz I. Romli, Kamarul Arifin Ahmad, D.L. Majid, Faizal Mustapha
PublisherTrans Tech Publications Ltd
Pages298-303
Number of pages6
ISBN (Electronic)9783038352327, 9783038352327
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2014
Externally publishedYes
Event5th AEROTECH conference - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Duration: Oct 29 2014Oct 30 2014

Publication series

NameApplied Mechanics and Materials
Volume629
ISSN (Print)1660-9336
ISSN (Electronic)1662-7482

Conference

Conference5th AEROTECH conference
Country/TerritoryMalaysia
CityKuala Lumpur
Period10/29/1410/30/14

Keywords

  • Low inclination orbits
  • Mission analysis
  • Orbit design
  • Remote sensing satellites

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Engineering

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