A Review on Precise Orbit Determination of Various LEO Satellites

Abstract

The need for precise orbit determination (POD) has grown significantly due to the increased amount of space-based activities appearing at an accelerating pace. POD has a positive contribution in achieving the requirements of Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite mission which includes improved reliability and continuity. In this paper, we will review the POD approaches of various LEO satellites and discuss the accuracy levels obtained as well as the methods and algorithms used to achieve the POD of LEO satellites. With recent advancements in miniature space technology, a greater number of smaller low-cost satellites are launched into the LEO for various purposes. Furthermore, development in the Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and chipsets played a vital role in revolutionizing the GNSS receiver technology. Lower-cost, smaller size but yet high performing GNSS receivers need to be implemented also in CubeSats in addition to the various terrestrial applications. POD using onboard GNSS receiver data will benefit the development of several upcoming space applications in the field of navigation systems, telecommunication, remote sensing, and earth observation. In the future, it is anticipated that LEO-based satellites enabled by POD can also offer positioning capabilities that will enhance GNSS and create vast opportunities for users with new features and possibilities to the navigation field.