A Communication and Positioning Method for Nano-satellite Clusters Applied in Deep-space Exploration
摘要
More and more nano-satellites (≤10 kg) are being sent into deep space to carry out exploration missions. Due to their limited resources, nano-satellites have limited capabilities and single functionality. However, a cluster composed of multiple nano-satellites can effectively break through the limitations of individual ones and perform more complex tasks. Wireless network and positioning system are the core technology of nano-satellite clusters, which need to meet communication distance requirements within tens to hundreds of kilometers of satellites group, provide the position of each satellite within the cluster to support formation flying, and meet real-time requirements of multiple satellites collaborating on tasks. A hierarchical network architecture based on routing technology has been designed, and a relative positioning method based on optical angle measurement and radio ranging has been introduced. By modifying the data link layer and network layer protocols, a wireless network with both network capacity and real-time performance has been achieved. With the help of network, the time deviation of each satellite in the cluster can be controlled within 5ms, and the positioning accuracy can reach 98m@50km.