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Multi-sun-synchronous (MSS) orbits for earth observation

Journal article published in 1992 by Carlo Ulivieri, Luciano Anselmo ORCID
This paper is available in a repository.
This paper is available in a repository.

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Preprint: policy unknown
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Postprint: policy unknown
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Published version: policy unknown

Abstract

A case study is outlined for a remote-sensing mission at low and middle latitudes based on multi-sun-synchronous (MSS) orbits. The scenario involves the use of small payloads in low-earth posigrade orbits that would overfly the Mediterranean region. A 600-kg spacecraft is considered in an orbit that is 571 km in altitude and at an inclination of 42.5 deg. The orbit is analyzed in terms of mission characteristics, and two years of operation is shown to be feasible with a fuel-consumption rate of less than three kg/yr of hydrazine. The mission could be based on the use of a Scout solid-propellant rockets into an MSS orbit, and only a limited number of ground stations are required for good data collection. A remote-sensing mission at low/middle latitudes is shown to be efficient in terms of both revisit frequency, fuel consumption, and data acquisition.