Satellite Cross-track Tethered Satellite System in LEO/VLEO: Mission Characterization and Design Analysis

This study investigates the stabilization of a Tethered Satellite System (TSS) operating in a cross-track configuration in LEO/VLEO for a remote sensing mission. A Dumbbell model of the TSS is developed using the Euler-Lagrange formalism to describe both the attitude dynamics and the elongation of the tether. The analysis evaluates the force required to maintain the cross-track configuration as a function of tether length, mass of the satellites, and orbital altitude, while also accounting for orbit-keeping requirements. Furthermore, the optimal altitude is determined to maximize system performance while minimizing the required propulsion. This article then examines the possibility of generating the required stabilization forces using aerodynamic surfaces in free molecular flow. The analysis focuses on determining the minimum necessary parameters to make this stabilization approach viable and efficient.