Two-stage controller algorithm for Multi-spacecraft Interferometric Imaging Maneuvers for Spiral Coverage with time varying target-system relative position

In this article a method to calculate near fuel optimal trajectories for imaging missions using multi-spacecraft interferometric imaging systems is described. These near-optimal trajectories are subject to near-earth orbit dynamics and take into account that the relative positions of target and formation may vary during the imaging time. The algorithm consists of a higher level nonlinear programming problem, and a low level linear quadratic tracker that solves for near minimum trajectories and calculates the dynamics and fuel requirements. As application of this methodology, different cases where it could be applied were simulated.