Impact of performance modeling on nano-satellite mission design

This paper describes the purpose, methodology, and conclusions of a performance analysis characterization for a nano-satellite mission. The mission concept includes two key requirements which are critical for mission success, collection capacity and data latency. An analytical toolset was developed to evaluate mission performance against these key requirements. Models of the spacecraft data storage system, power system, and primary payload were developed in addition to the communications architecture. A simple collection and downlink scheduler was implemented to evaluate collection capacity and latency. Initial results indicated that the mission design was flawed as the communications architecture was vastly undersized for the amount of mission data capable of being collected. Trade studies were conducted to determine a communications architecture that supported the spacecraft collecting at peak operation levels. Identification of a modified architecture along with the supporting analysis was critical in properly focusing efforts to maximize mission utility.