Aeronautics and astronautics – Spacecraft – Spacecraft formation – orbit – or interplanetary path
Reexamination Certificate
2007-09-18
2007-09-18
Swiatek, Rob (Department: 3643)
Aeronautics and astronautics
Spacecraft
Spacecraft formation, orbit, or interplanetary path
Reexamination Certificate
active
11086747
ABSTRACT:
A new approach for designing satellite constellations whereby each satellite follows a common ground track is being proposed for performing high-precision change detection imagery for long periods of time. By precisely prescribing the orbital parameters, i.e., the relationship between the right ascension of the ascending nodes (RAAN) and the phase angle difference between successive satellites, for example, sharpened change detection images may be taken from successive satellites in the constellation without the need to process out blurring by any special image re-working software. The relationship between the orbital parameters of the satellites is precisely tuned to the earth's rotation rate for the altitude of the satellites. A reduction in the total satellite count is achievable due to tiling the satellite coverage in near optimal arrangements. Such high-precision change detection imaging by successive satellites in orbit around the earth is at least useful in the detection of underground facilities activities and the detection of slow moving objects.
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Northrop Grumman Corporation
Swiatek Rob
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