Continuous Whole-Earth Coverage by Circular-Orbit Satellite Patterns

Abstract

Earlier studies of continuous whole-Earth coverage by patterns of satellites in equal-period circular orbits have been extended by means of a computer program to patterns of up to 25 satellites and to the provision of up to seven-fold continuous coverage. The program is described and various factors which may influence the choice of pattern for a particular application are discussed, including the level of coverage provided, the minimum satellite separation, and the number and form of the Earth-tracks traced by a pattern at a particular orbital altitude. A method is given of selecting a short-list of potentially suitable patterns, prior to detailed study. (Author)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 24, 1977
Accession Number
ADA044593

Entities

People

  • J. G. Walker

Organizations

  • Royal Aircraft Establishment

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Artificial Satellites
  • Circular Orbits
  • Communication Satellites
  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Geosynchronous Orbits
  • Geosynchronous Satellites
  • Global Positioning Systems
  • Grids
  • Latitude
  • Longitude
  • Multiple Access
  • Navigation
  • Navigation Satellites
  • Northern Hemisphere
  • Satellite Navigation Systems
  • Satellite Orbits

Readers

  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris