Gianni Pecora

PhD Thesis

Operations and Propulsion Maneuver Planning in Satellites Based on Digital Twins and Multidisciplinary Optimization

Supervisors

Manuel Sanjurjo Rivo (UC3M) & Daniel González Arribas (Ienai SPACE)

Abstract

The thesis proposes to address challenges in small satellite-based space missions and orbital constellations. These challenges include the need to maneuver satellites in orbit to modify their orbits, avoid collisions, and deorbit in a controlled manner. Currently, electric propulsion, despite its lower efficiency compared to chemical propulsion, is preferred due to mass and volume constraints. However, it requires more complex operational planning, interfering with nominal operations. The use of digital twins, simulations, and optimization algorithms are proposed to solve these challenges. Digital twins translate the physical and logical configuration of the system into models that can be simulated. These simulations are then used by multidisciplinary optimization algorithms and sensitivity analysis tools to design and evaluate the satellite, its operations, and maneuvers. The proposed approach also allows managing uncertainties during the mission, producing solutions that meet requirements and maximize performance in various scenarios. Additionally, the proposed methodology enables integrating mobility operations with other satellite operations, improving the overall efficiency of the mission.

Doctoral Meetings