Date of Award

Spring 2010

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering

Program/Concentration

Aerospace Engineering

Committee Director

Brett Newman

Committee Member

Robert L. Ash

Committee Member

Colin P. Britcher

Call Number for Print

Special Collections; LD4331.E535 K636 2010

Abstract

In order to utilize space effectively, the primary function of satellite control in orbit around the Earth must be accomplished. This controlling process includes two main segments, ground stations serving as the controller units and orbiting satellites as the units to be controlled. This thesis explores a topological data exchange model that contains one satellite and multiple ground stations. The model is implemented in digital computer software. This model has multiple purposes and can be used to simulate satellite passes over ground stations and can also be used to predict communication time and the amount of transferred data. The model is built with a flexible and modular structure that allows users to easily set up or modify the mission scenario to match the desired objective. The model emphasizes system aspects such as data exchange, contact windows, communication durations, and time analysis. By using the model, numerical results and graphics, based on realistic space mission scenarios involving multiple ground stations, are presented to explain the need for a ground station network.

Rights

In Copyright. URI: http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/ This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).

DOI

10.25777/r8cz-1769

Share

COinS