Selection of satellite constellations with space weather monitoring payloads for Iran
Document Type : selected article
Authors
1
Assistant professor of Satellite Research Institute, Iranian Space Research Center
2
Master of space engineering
3
Assistant professor of research institute Iranian space research center
4
ISRC
Abstract
Monitoring the space weather and managing its disruptive phenomena is crucial to mitigate its adverse effects. Research shows that space platforms, especially satellite constellations with appropriate payloads, can complement ground-based monitoring networks. This study focused on selecting satellite constellations to ensure full Iran and the Middle East coverage. Payload selection was based on the country's space weather monitoring needs and strategies. The payloads include a magnetometer, proton-electron ion detector, radio occultation, Ion drift meter, and radiation monitor. STK software was used to design and analyze the satellite constellations. The design was initially performed assuming one ground station and then by creating a network of ground stations (5 stations) at an orbital altitude of 500 km, inclination of 45 and 55 degrees, and using a symmetric satellite constellation with a Walker Delta pattern. The superior satellite constellations were chosen from 778 scenarios using the statistical parameter comparison method, which included minimum visible satellites and cumulative coverage. After evaluating scenarios, the two superior constellations identified were 7x10 and 14x1. Utilizing a 45 degree orbital inclination and a network of dispersed ground stations minimizes the required number of satellites and provides comprehensive coverage of Iran.
Keywords
Subjects
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Volume 5, Issue 2
March 2026Pages 23-33
- Receive Date 02 July 2024
- Revise Date 26 August 2024
- Accept Date 05 January 2025