We present the general concept of a telescope with optics and detectors mounted on two separate spacecrafts, in orbit around the telescope’s target (scopocentric or target-centric orbit), and using propulsion to maintain the Target-Optics-Detector alignment and Optics-Detector distance. Specifically, we study the case of such a telescope with the Sun as the target, orbiting at ∼1 AU. We present a simple differential acceleration budget for maintaining Target-Optics-Detector alignment and Optics-Detector distance, backed by simulations of the orbital dynamics, including solar radiation pressure and influence of the planets. Of prime interest are heliocentric orbits (such as Earth-trailing/leading orbits or Distant Retrograde Orbits), where thrust requirement to maintain formation is primarily in a single direction (either sunward or anti-sunward), can be quite minuscule (a few m/s/year), and preferably met by constant-thrust engines such as solar electric propulsion or even by solar sailing via simple extendable and/or orientable flaps or rudders.


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    Title :

    Precise Formation-Flying Telescope in Target-Centric Orbit: the Solar Case


    Additional title:

    J Astronaut Sci


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Publication date :

    2020-12-01


    Size :

    21 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English







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