Topaz II Nuclear Powered SAR Satellite
Abstract
The AA4871 Spacecraft Design course is the capstone class for the M.S. in Astronautics at the Naval Postgraduate School. The design team integrated a Topaz II nuclear power system with an EOS Synthetic Aperture Radar to design a low Earth orbit, three axis stabilized satellite flying in a gravity gradient stable orientation. The SAR is a high resolution, electronically steerable, Earth science data collector for glaciology, hydrology, vegetation oceanography and geology which penetrates clouds, foliage and shallow soil layers. The antenna modules provide global, regional, and local high resolution mapping. Tradeoffs were analyzed to optimize coverage, satisfy nuclear safety issues, and to satisfy defined revisit and resolution requirements. The design emphasized use of qualified and readily available components and subsystems. The satellite features a cylindrical monocoque aluminium structure, and a sun synchronous orbit simplifying thermal control design. It has a momentum bias attitude control system with momentum wheels and thrusters. The antenna has microstrip radiating elements on a honeycomb metal and composite structure and is articulated with respect to the spacecraft via an electric gimbal motor. Existing satellite control and data processing and distribution facilities and an existing launch vehicle and launch site limit cost and technical risk.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA630940
Entities
People
- B. Agrawal
- M. Feuerstein
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School