Replenishment Strategy for Satellite Constellation with Dual Supply Modes

This paper proposes a novel replenishment strategy for a satellite mega-constellation involving two supply modes: the primary and auxiliary modes. The primary mode employs the indirect channel, wherein spare satellites are initially sent to a parking orbit before transferring to the target orbital plane using their own propulsion systems. Conversely, the auxiliary supply mode utilizes a direct channel, injecting spare satellites immediately into their designated orbital planes. An inventory management model using parametric replenishment policies with a time window is constructed. Two optimization problems to design and operate the supply chain for satellite mega-constellation replenishment reflecting the perspectives of the constellation operator and launch service provider are formulated and solved. A case study demonstrates the applicability of the proposed approach for the supply chain management of a mega-constellation.