[en] This paper presents a mission concept designed for satellite-to-cell connectivity through a fractionated CubeSat approach, aiming to fulfill the objectives set by the BlueWalker-3 specifications. The envisioned system consists of 41 CubeSats, each adopting a 16U form factor, to provide dedicated coverage across specified sub-regions, as a reasonable solution. The pre-Phase-A design capitalizes on commercially available components with proven flight heritage, ensuring reliability and cost-efficiency. A genetic algorithm (GA)-based method has been introduced to tackle the complex challenge of designing a large antenna's folding pattern, with an analysis on how this design influences the overall system cost. The study conducts an in-depth analysis of system architecture and operational scenarios. Employing Monte-Carlo simulations, it assesses the Life Cycle Cost (LCC) and the system's resilience to failures, comparing it with similar configurations differing in CubeSat size and number. The results demonstrate that a fractionated approach significantly enhances the mission's scalability and robustness, providing substantial operational flexibility. The comparison highlights a cost-effective configuration within fractionated systems, emphasizing the proposed system's potential advantages. Furthermore, the paper addresses the environmental implications of deploying a fractionated spacecraft constellation, especially concerning astronomical studies. It underscores the CubeSats' minimized brightness and their reduced potential to interfere with telescopic observations, positioning the system as a more compatible option with nighttime sky studies. This consideration is particularly pertinent amidst increasing concerns over the impact of satellite constellations on astronomical research and night sky quality.
Précision sur le type de document :
Compte rendu
Disciplines :
Ingénierie aérospatiale
Auteur, co-auteur :
ALANDIHALLAJ, Mohammadamin ; University of Luxembourg > Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SNT) > SPASYS
HEIN, Andreas ; University of Luxembourg > Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SNT) > SPASYS
Co-auteurs externes :
no
Langue du document :
Anglais
Titre :
Exploring the potential of fractionated spacecraft for enhanced satellite connectivity: Application to the satellite-to-cell case
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