Currently, the size of satellites is limited due to the available payload capacity of modern launch vehicles. However, large sized satellites are needed to improve Earth observation capabilities and the resolution of telescopes. Satellite formation flying can be used to overcome this limitation. This involves coordinated flight between two or more satellites resulting in new challenges.
The DLR Institute of Space Systems conducts scientific and research activities for formation flying in the following 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.
