A MISSION COST MODEL FOR FERRET SATELLITES.
Abstract
An analytical model to evaluate ferret satellite systems is explicated. It may also be used to yield inputs for specific system definition. In addition to the general stochastic nature of radar signal detection, analyses are applied to the cases of unknown emitter bandwidths and to the detection of known frequencies. The conditions of emitter operation and overflight are included. The signal detection probability is implicitly an input to a cost effectiveness methodology which considers major parameters such as orbital altitude, payload weight, reliabilities, launching requirements and costs, weights and costs of satellites and ancillary equipment, and total mission cost to achieve objectives with predetermined confidence. Logic is drawn from the model to support the conclusion that, ignoring safety tolerances, the minimum orbital altitude related to the desired lifetime is preferred. Numerical examples are presented; however, the principal purpose of the paper is to document the analytical method. There is no application to specific systems that might be postulated. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0615759
Entities
People
- H. C. Sebring
Organizations
- General Electric