Application of a multi-objective evolutionary algorithm to the spacecraft stationkeeping problem

Philip L. Myers, David B. Spencer

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Satellite operations are becoming an increasingly private industry, requiring increased profitability. Efficient and safe operation of satellites in orbit will ensure longer lasting and more profitable satellite services. This paper focuses on the use of a multi-objective evolutionary algorithm to schedule the maneuvers of a hypothetical satellite operating at geosynchronous altitude, by seeking to minimize the propellant consumed through the execution of stationkeeping maneuvers and the time the satellite is displaced from its desired orbital plane. North-South stationkeeping was studied in this paper, through the use of a set of orbit inclination change maneuvers each year. Two cases for the maximum number of maneuvers to be executed were considered, with four and five maneuvers per year. The results delivered by the algorithm provide maneuver schedules which require 40 to 100 m/s of total for two years of operation, with the satellite maintaining the satellite's orbital plane to within 0.1° between 84 and 96 percent of the two years being modeled.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publication65th International Astronautical Congress 2014, IAC 2014
Subtitle of host publicationOur World Needs Space
PublisherInternational Astronautical Federation, IAF
Pages5218-5232
Number of pages15
ISBN (Electronic)9781634399869
StatePublished - 2014
Event65th International Astronautical Congress 2014: Our World Needs Space, IAC 2014 - Toronto, Canada
Duration: Sep 29 2014Oct 3 2014

Publication series

NameProceedings of the International Astronautical Congress, IAC
Volume7
ISSN (Print)0074-1795

Other

Other65th International Astronautical Congress 2014: Our World Needs Space, IAC 2014
Country/TerritoryCanada
CityToronto
Period9/29/1410/3/14

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Aerospace Engineering
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • Space and Planetary Science

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