Small Satellites for Responsive Space: A Consideration of Tactical, Operational, Strategic Aspects

Kurzfassung

Responsive Space (RS) describes the provision of space-based capabilities to react promptly to changing demands on the space infrastructure. The need to adapt functionalities in orbit in a timely manner is due to the significant dependence of civil, security and defense-related processes on satellites - and the resulting realization that space is a critical infrastructure. Prompt adaptation means the replacement of assets in space that are no longer available due to malfunction or targeted sabotage. The reactive provision of supplementary space functionalities becomes necessary in crisis situations. In both scenarios, this can be achieved by an ad-hoc transfer to orbit of a satellite system that is specifically integrated with the relevant payloads in a short time span. It is also conceivable that a preassembled, appropriately stored system could be deployed on request. The described use cases represent the aspect of Tactical Responsive Space. Mastering the interface standardization of satellite platforms, in particular small and nanosatellites, with relevant payloads as well as modularity of system components are an essential research discipline in this context. In addition to satellite systems, launch systems are also considered in tactical RS (Responsive Launch). Strategic Responsive Space embraces a holistic approach to the space infrastructure, which provides reconnaissance, navigation or communication functionalities as required without having to supplement the architecture in orbit per se. Strategic RS deals with constellations and systems-of-systems that can interact instantaneously when required. The provision of functionalities from the orbit is achieved through the interoperability of distributed systems; networking and data fusion are a central subject of research here. Compatibility also extends to the respective ground segment infrastructure. Small satellites play a crucial role here due to their potential in scalability towards building extended space architectures. The regulatory and logistical framework for implementing RS in a tactical or strategic context is subsumed under the term Operational Responsive Space. This includes space legislative initiatives, intergovernmental agreements, sovereign user application concepts, and the development of a national technology roadmap for RS. This proposed presentation discusses the different levels of RS and their relevance in building a resilient space infrastructure. It connects the levels of RS to the research activities of the Responsive Space Cluster Competence Center (RSC³) at the German Aerospace Center. The RSC³ creates the research basis for a secure space infrastructure and advances innovation for more resilience in space. The RSC³ experimentally advances the integration and testing of responsive deployment of payloads on small satellites. Based on the Space Functional Areas, the RSC³ analyses the requirements placed on the satellite platforms by the necessary sensors and test the interfaces. The aim of the experimental research is to identify suitable standards and modular components that significantly accelerate the ad-hoc integration of small satellite systems and their validation. The RSC³ is working on the optimization of AIT processes and show how an accelerated deployment of a mission can be made possible in a trade-off with other design parameters. The RSC³ operates the Responsive Space Technology Evaluation Center (RSTEC).