Abstract

In this research a satellite inspection conducted by an inspector satellite operating nearby a resident space object (RSO) in an elliptical orbit is analyzed by formulating and solving differential games. Indirect heuristic methods are used where each game corresponds to an inspection goal of the inspector satellite: 1) intercept;2) rendezvous;3) obtain sun vector; 4) match energy; 5) obtain sun vector and match energy; and 6) match energy and remain in close proximity during the ensuing orbit. Worst-case scenarios that may inform requirements for future satellites are devised.