Simulation modelling of autonomous navigation support for small satellite constellation

Abstract A small satellite system has many advantages related to its technical characteristics, production cycle and costs. At the same time, separate satellites are usually operating as a part of a ballistic-coupled constellation. The navigation and ballistic support tasks for the satellite group include calculation of satellite motion, of inter-satellite bases and prediction of the ballistic existence of the constellation. Currently, autonomous navigation support of the constellation is proved by onboard satellite navigation systems, the design cycle of which necessarily includes simulation of implemented algorithms. In the paper, the simulation model of small satellite navigation support is presented. The simulation procedure for the navigation support includes the following steps: formation the reference satellite constellation, estimation the current status of GPS and GLONASS systems orbital groupings, calculation the parameters of navigational satellite radio-visibility, solving the navigation problem according to global navigation satellite systems and inter-satellite navigation. The article also describes the procedure and results of modelling the process of the onboard navigation system functioning. Further development of the model associated with the software implementation of the small satellite disturbed orbital motion and modules for generating the radio frequency component of navigation and inter-satellite signals.