On the Optimum Update of Satellite Constellations with AOA Receivers: a Comparative Analysis

This study explores the topic of the optimum distribution of satellites in a certain constellation in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). In particular, the reference scenario considers a cluster of satellites with Angle of Arrival (AOA) payload with the purpose of geolocating an emitter of electromagnetic waves on the surface of the Earth. The mathematical modelling and simulations for two-satellite systems are presented, addressing a mission planning need to update a first satellite system with a second companion in order to improve the precision of the geolocation measurements. The study performs a comparative analysis considering two cases of interest: in the first case, the same AOA receiver is employed for both satellites, while in the second case there is a different receiver in terms of size and number of antenna elements. The results of the simulations are on the optimum angular position of the satellites in terms of the true anomaly, the right ascension of the ascending node, and the spacing angle between the satellites with respect to the emitter position. Among the results, there is the presentation of quantitative trends, properties of symmetry and anti-symmetry, and the highlight of discontinuities.