A low earth orbit satellite descent strategy

The object of the article is the method of descending a satellite from low Earth orbit (LEO) at the end of its service lifetime for its disposal. The main problem is to ensure a safe and cost-effective disposal of the satellite while minimizing risks to the environment and other objects in orbit. Based on the method, calculations were made for lowering the orbit and directing the satellite to a remote area of the Earth’s ocean. The calculations included braking pulses, fuel consumption, descent time to the burial orbit, and the time for natural descent before reaching the Earth's surface. The descent process is divided into three stages: active descent using low-thrust engines (LTE), passive descent due to natural braking in the out-of-atmosphere part, and fall through the dense atmosphere. Dependency graphs were provided to illustrate orbit altitude, satellite speed, reentry angle changes, and flight range over time. The findings revealed that combining active orbital maneuvers with passive orbital decay optimizes the deorbiting procedure by minimizing fuel requirements and operational complexity. The proposed strategy ensures the satellite-controlled re-entry and safe disposal, significantly reducing the risks of collisions and environmental impact. The results solved the problem by defining a staged satellite descent process. Duration were computed for active descent with braking impulses for uniform altitude reduction and passive descent due to atmospheric drag. The trajectory and duration of fall in atmosphere. The process ensures controlled re-entry and safe disposal. This method is suitable for satellite operators and space agencies handling LEO missions