Satellite System Design Considering the Blocking Effect: Application to Active Debris Removal

Abstract

This paper describes the system design of satellites with a blocking effect. The blocking effect is that in which an object interferes with the radio waves used for communication or the sunlight used for power generation. The consideration of this effect is necessary in proving the feasibility of the satellite system design, especially in various missions, such as active debris removal (ADR) and on-orbit servicing, because the satellite must approach closely and touch the noncooperative objects. This study investigated the system feasibility of an ADR satellite using the system design method by considering the blocking effect. First, we propose a feasible attitude plan that satisfies the condition of the depth of discharge of the battery, considering that the generated power is affected by the debris. Next, the power-generation distribution on the solar array paddle was investigated. Finally, the feasibility of the satellite’s communication with the ground station and GPS satellites under the blocking effect was verified.