Relative trajectory analysis of dissimilar formation flying spacecraft

This paper deals with the differential acceleration effects on spacecraft formation flying. A mathematical model is developed to analyze relative trajectory of spacecraft in the presence of significant perturbative forces. The equations of relative coordinates are derived as a precise solution to the formation geometry problem and are valid for both close and long distance formation patterns and for rendezvous analysis. The coordinates of motion are propagated forward in time for identical and dissimilar spacecraft for different initial conditions. The results of this paper provide a physical insight into the actual behaviour of satellites in a cluster with differential drag-area.