Satellite Formation Flying

Satellites .

Currently, the size of satellites is limited due to the available shipping volume of modern launch vehicles.  However, larger and larger structures are needed to improve Earth observation capabilities and the resolution of telescopes. Satellite formation flying can be used to overcome this restriction. This involves coordinated flight between two or more satellites, in which new challenges arise. 

The Institute of Space Systems researches the following formation flying areas:

• Balancing the requirements between scientific goals, the dynamics of relative satellite movements and fuel consumption
• Developing sub-millimeter accuracy sensors to determine the relative position of satellites
• Overcoming robustness challenges for inter-satellite communication
• Controlling the satellite formation with both autonomous and central control algorithms

The test site TEAMS (Test Environment for Applications of Multiple Spacecraft) is currently being developed for testing sensors, communication systems and control algorithms.