Horizontal wind influence on satellite aerodynamics at the edge of space

Master thesis (2021)

Authors

L.M. Toonen Aerospace Engineering

Contributors

P.N.A.M. Visser Astrodynamics & Space Missions - Aerospace Engineering (mentor)
J.A.A. van den IJssel Astrodynamics & Space Missions - Aerospace Engineering (graduation committee member)
C. Siemes Astrodynamics & Space Missions - Aerospace Engineering (graduation committee member)
E.N. Doornbos Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) (mentor)
S. Speretta Space Systems Egineering (graduation committee member)
Faculty
Aerospace Engineering, Aerospace Engineering
Copyright: © 2021 Liv Mare Toonen
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Published Date

04-06-2021

Language

English

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Faculty

Aerospace Engineering

Abstract

To be able to understand and predict space weather better, global in-situ satellite measurements are needed at an altitude of 100-150 km. However, due to the high density, space weather induced winds and the lack of data, it is a challenge to design a satellite mission to that region. Therefore, in this thesis, the influence of horizontal wind on satellite aerodynamics in the lower thermosphere is analyzed. The impact of the choice in satellite geometry design and orbital parameters on the satellite's aerodynamics and wind sensitivity is tested. To model satellite aerodynamics in this high-density region, a method of using the Stochastic PArallel Rarefied-gas Time-accurate Analyzer, SPARTA, is proposed. It is proven that the worst-case horizontal wind can have a negligible influence on the satellite’s drag coefficient depending on its attitude and satellite geometry. Based on the obtained conclusions, recommendations are given to simplify the design process and reduce aerodynamic drag.

Files

Msc_Thesis_LM_Toonen.pdf
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