Simulation Tool for Satellite Constellation Mission Operations

Important results from the project

We achieved our goal, which was to build a simulation tool that could be used to support the writing of an ESA M8 proposal for a sub-mm space-based interferometer. We were able to develop several algorithms that were used in the Phase 1 proposal, but they will be even more crucial if we are allowed to Phase 2. The whole suite is available upon request and we aim to use it for other satellite constellation project development ideas.

Expected long term effects

If the ESA proposal advances to Phase 2, this project would represent Sweden’s official participation in an international space initiative. Should the mission be approved, this work will have contributed to the development of a collaborative space mission for scientific research. Once the development of MiSim and the AI modules is complete, our goal is to publish and share them openly, enabling the scientific community to access and apply these tools in space missions with diverse objectives.

Approach and implementation

The Vinnova funding has enabled us to maintain active involvement in the ESA M8 proposal work. Unfortunately, the short time between Vinnova’s decision and ESA’s submission deadline limited the resources we could mobilize, which in turn affected how far we could advance in the development process. Despite these constraints, we achieved significant progress, placing us in a strong position for the next phase of the ESA proposal and for planning future space missions with other objectives.