Space environment simulation for LEO spacecrafts devoted to a multimedia constellation

Abstract A constellation consisting of more than one thousand LEO satellites has been proposed in China in recent years. The purpose of this constellation is to provide an effective solution for space-based multimedia networks all over the world. The operational orbit is roughly defined as follows. Altitude is about one thousand kilometers, the inclination is about 90 degrees, and tens of orbit planes are designed for satellites to deploy in space. The space environment for satellites in such orbit altitude is particularly focused on to carry out such a huge space engineering successfully. Herein, such radiation causes as the Earth radiation belt, solar proton, and cosmic ray are considered. Based on internationally advanced space environment assessment software, SPENVIS, with the novelty of a multimedia network deployed at 1000 km altitude, the practical constraints to be suitable for tough space environment situations are simulated. Based on radiation simulations, it has shown that if the 7-year lifespan for LEO satellites is concerned, there is about 50.4 krad radiation dosage after 3mm Aluminium shielding; there is about 20.9 krad dosage with 6mm Aluminium shielding; and there is about 16.5 krad dosage with 9mm Aluminium shielding. Considering the design margin for radiation dosage, for 7-year lifespan satellites, the anti-total dose capacity is about 50.4×2 krad total dose with 3 mm Aluminium shielding; there is about 20.9×2 krad dosage with 6 mm Aluminium shielding; and there is about 16.5×2 krad total dose with 9 mm Aluminium shielding. If only the above space environment requirements are met, the proposed multimedia constellation would be in operation safe and sound in space during the lifespan of the satellites in question.