Method and system for formationfinding and formationkeeping in a constellation of satellites
May 10, 2011. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.Patent References 3866025 Controller for the attitude stabilization of a satellite Cushion utilizing air and liquid Precision platform pointing controller for a dual-spin spacecraft Spacecraft stabilization system and method Station-keeping using solar sailing Spacecraft approach/separation by use of angular measurement System for aiding the movement of moving units in group formation Closed-loop autonomous docking system Geostationary satellite system InventorAssigneeApplicationNo. 698606 filed on 05/10/1991US Classes:701/226, Space orbits or paths162/206, With heating and/or cooling244/164, Attitude control701/300RELATIVE LOCATIONExaminersPrimary: Black, Thomas G.Assistant: Auchterlonie, Thomas S. Attorney, Agent or FirmInternational ClassB64G 001/10AbstractA method and system for formationfinding and formationkeeping in a constellation of satellites (20) orbiting about a primary body (34) is provided. A set of satellite (20) destination position (22) and time goals is selected corresponding to the satellite's (20) station in a desired constellation. The satellite (20) senses actual destination arrival positions (32) and times relative to reference positions independent of the constellation and compares these values to values from the set of goals. Corrective maneuvers are selectively implemented responsive to this comparison.Other References
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