Small Satellite Implementation of a Lunar Relay Satellite

Abstract

The authors will report on a small lunar relay satellite concept, capable of fitting in a Minotaur V launch vehicle, to provide communication and navigation (C&N) services to users on the moon. Ultimately, the C&N system will provide multiple fixed and mobile users, human and robotic, with service from launch to lunar landing and throughout occupation. In order to provide complete coverage for users on the moon, a constellation of relay satellites will ultimately be required. In the near term, however, the relays will focus on certain important locations, particularly the South Polar region, where water may be located and early landings may occur. These locations are only visible from Earth antennas for 14 days of each 28 day time period, requiring a relay satellite to fill the gaps. One alternative for this satellite is a small, less costly lunar relay capable of launching on the relatively inexpensive Minotaur class of launch vehicles, the Minotaur V in particular. In this paper, this spacecraft concept will be discussed, including the mission context, concept of operations, mission requirements, payload concept, ground system concept and spacecraft concept.