Static Formations Using Momentum Exchange Between Satellites

Feasible operations of satellite formations are dependent upon an efficient way to affect the relative motion. One possible means of formation stationkeeping is for satellites to exchange momentum in the form of radiation or mass. This approach could potentially provide a mutually repulsive force between satellites without the expenditure of propellant. This paper characterizes equilibria positions in the rotating orbital frame for an arbitrary number of satellites subjected to equal and opposite repulsive force between specifiable satellite pairs. Equilibrium configurations are found that allow arbitrary dispersion in the plane perpendicular to nadir. Stability analysis of these equilibria show stable out-of-plane motion and unstable in-plane motion. A strategy is developed to stabilize the system and to reconfigure the formation geometry. Finally, a simulation including Earth oblateness demonstrates the dynamic feasibility of this method of orbit control.