Experience in Operating a Constellation of AIST Type Small Satellites with Samara University Ground Control Center and Perspective of Managing a Constellation of Satellites using a Distributed Network of Control Centers Based on Multiagent Approach

Abstract This paper presents the results of verification of ground testing of the AIST-type small spacecraft thermal control system (TCS) based on telemetry data received during their in-orbit testing and operation by the ground control station (GCS) of Samara University. The study into the efficiency and operability of the TCS was done on the AIST series of small spacecrafts AIST#1 (RS-43as), launched on April 19, 2013 from Baykonur Cosmodrome as a by-cargo of Bion-M #1 spacecraft, and an experimental sample of AIST #2 (RS-41at) small spacecraft launched by Soyuz-2.1 v with Volga insertion module on December 28, 2013, from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome.