Spacecraft motion in a low circular orbit in establishing intersatellite link

The article investigates the problem of inter-satellite linking in the constellation of spacecraft in a low circular orbit. A specific problem of establishing intersatellite link (IL) in that orbit - cross-pointing of the antennae - is also studied. To support cross-tracking, it is important to place spacecraft (SC) in the orbital plane so that they are constantly in the zone of mutual visibility. The line-of-sight range is analyzed both in one orbital plane and between adjacent planes. IL is treated in terms of the orbital constellation (OC) ballistic formation. Several typical modes of motion of SC with IL in adjacent planes are determined - parallel, orthogonal, oncoming. The parameter values of IL antenna pointing are also assessed. The obtained results of OC formation and antenna pointing parameters’ calculations may be relevant for establishing a modified system.