Orbit decaying simulation of QUESS satellite and its reentry prediction

Abstract The Quantum Experiments at Space Scale satellite (short for QUESS) is one of the space missions proposed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences; its main scientific goals include carrying out three experiments in space. They are satellite-based quantum entanglement distribution experiments, satellite-to-ground quantum key distribution, and ground-to-satellite quantum teleportation. In 2017, three experiments were proved to be a great success, the results of which were published in Nature and Science, respectively. At present, orbit decaying for QUESS seems to be worsening partially due to the solar maximal activities during the recent years. Based on the precision orbit elements derived from the GNSS receiver onboard the QUESS, the orbit evolution is simulated, and the reentry predictions are carried out. The results provide consulting support for ground TTC staff to take effective measures to ensure QUESS’ reentry without endangering the human activities on the Earth ground.