Grand Challenges in Space Technology: Distributed Satellite Systems

Abstract : The MITIAFRL Distributed Satellite Systems program examines the motivation, analysis and development of technology associated with the distribution of assets and functionality over a number of cooperating satellites. A complete framework (GINA) for the analysis and comparison of widely varying architectures has been developed and applied to various test cases both existing and in development. Many technologies have been studied, including space based interferometric radar and imaging, formation flying dynamics and control of clusters, micropropulsion, launch vehicle selection, software development and mechanisms for end of life disposal. Two test beds have been developed for the purpose of validating the theories and exercising autonomy and control. This paper summarizes the findings of this research.

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