An auction algorithm for allocating fuel in satellite constellations using peer-to-peer refueling

The problem of assuring the operability of a satellite constellation by internal (peer-to-peer/P2P) refueling is addressed. Specifically, a formulation is presented that seeks to match the fuel-sufficient satellites in the constellation with the fuel-deficient ones, so that the former can refuel the latter, while at the same time minimize the total fuel consumption incurred during the ensuing orbital rendezvous. Asymmetric auctions are introduced as a means for solving this problem, owing to their advantages for decentralized implementation. Examples are provided to demonstrate the proposed methodology