Simulation Framework for Orbit Propagation and Space Trajectory Visualization

In this article, an interactive tool for simulation of satellites dynamics and autonomous spacecraft guidance is presented. Different geopotential models for orbit propagation of Earth-orbiting satellites are provided, which consider earth's gravitational field with various accuracies. The presented software is a 3-D visualization platform for space orbit simulation with analytical capabilities through various modules. Taking advantage of a graphical user interface, it can evaluate, analyze, and illustrate the motion of satellite based on different orbit propagation schemes. Several cases of satellites and autonomous spacecraft in the space rendezvous mission are simulated regarding different propagation models to demonstrate the performance of the application in space mission analysis, ground track visualization, and trajectory optimization. Results are validated by comparing with other state-of-the-art tools, such as AGI Systems Tool Kit.