Creating a Design Reference Mission for a Refueling Spacecraft

We created a Design Reference Mission (DRM) in which a derelict spacecraft is orbiting in GEO that needs refueling. We were tasked with planning out a simulation where our spacecraft could start in LEO, navigate and propel itself to the derelict craft, then use its sensors to carefully dock and refuel. In addition to this, the derelict spacecrafts geometry is unknown, so we had to rely on sensors and optics.

Interns: Sibrat Dugassa, Ava Seyoum, Steve Ma, Kai Westby

Mentors: Michelle Chen (SES/SAT), Emily Tyler (SES/SAT), Nick Mastandrea (SES/SAT), Aniket Goel (SES/SAT)