The benefits of very low earth orbit for earth observation missions
Visualitza/Obre
10.1016/j.paerosci.2020.100619
Inclou dades d'ús des de 2022
Cita com:
hdl:2117/330449
Tipus de documentArticle
Data publicació2020-08
Condicions d'accésAccés obert
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Reconeixement-NoComercial-SenseObraDerivada Internacional
Abstract
Very low Earth orbits (VLEO), typically classified as orbits below approximately 450 km in altitude, have the potential to provide significant benefits to spacecraft over those that operate in higher altitude orbits. This paper provides a comprehensive review and analysis of these benefits to spacecraft operations in VLEO, with para-metric investigation of those which apply specifically to Earth observation missions. The most significant benefit for optical imaging systems is that a reduction in orbital altitude improves spatial resolution for a similar payload specification. Alternatively mass and volume savings can be made whilst maintaining a given performance. Similarly, for radar and lidar systems, the signal-to-noise ratio can be improved. Additional benefits include improved geospatial position accuracy, improvements in communications link-budgets, and greater launch vehicle insertion capability. The collision risk with orbital debris and radiation environment can be shown to be improved in lower altitude orbits, whilst compliance with IADC guidelines for spacecraft post-mission lifetime and deorbit is also assisted. Finally, VLEO offers opportunities to exploit novel atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion systems and aerodynamic attitude and orbit control methods. However, key challenges associated with our understanding of the lower thermosphere, aerodynamic drag, the requirement to provide a meaningful orbital lifetime whilst minimising spacecraft mass and complexity, and atomic oxygen erosion still require further research. Given the scope for significant commercial, societal, and environmental impact which can be realised with higher performing Earth observation platforms, renewed research efforts to address the challenges associated with VLEO operations are required
CitacióCrisp, N. [et al.]. The benefits of very low earth orbit for earth observation missions. "Progress in aerospace sciences", Agost 2020, vol. 117, p. 100619/1-100619/18.
ISSN0376-0421
Versió de l'editorhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376042120300312
Altres identificadorshttp://arxiv.org/abs/2007.07699v2
Col·leccions
- L'AIRE - Laboratori Aeronàutic i Industrial de Recerca i Estudis - Articles de revista [60]
- Departament d'Enginyeria de Projectes i de la Construcció - Articles de revista [360]
- Departament de Física - Articles de revista [2.209]
- TUAREG - Turbulence and Aerodynamics in Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Research Group - Articles de revista [78]
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2007.07699-1.pdf | 4,608Mb | Visualitza/Obre |