Satellite Orbit and Ephemeris Determination using Inter Satellite Links

Inter Satellite LinksSimulations and Results6.1.1.3 IGSO on three LoopsAnother constellation which ahs been favoured by the ESA as a possible constellation forGNSS 2 is the following one: 18 satellites are placed on orbital planes that way, that thelongitude of their ascending nodes (not right ascension) are located at 10°E / 110°W / 130°Eover the equator. IGSO's share the same ground tracks, is the spacing of their orbit planes isequal to their spacing in mean anomaly.6 space crafts orbit on 3 loops over Japan, Europe / Africa and North America / SouthPacific. The inclination is 70°. The following picture shows the satellites on their commonground tracks. The ground track locations shown are that of the custom global network.Figure 6-5 Ground Tracks of IGSO Constellation "on three Loops"This constellation also provides a reasonable coverage, as can be seen in the followingpicture. A visibility of five or more S/C is ensured globally.R. Wolf Page 97