Model of a Multi-Satellite System Autonomous Group Control

The object of research in the article is the information technology of autonomous group control of a multi-satellite system for remote sensing of the Earth. An orbital grouping of small satellite clusters is considered as case study. Clusters refer to satellites that are located close to each other. The information technology is based on an agent-oriented approach and information interaction of satellite software agents based on the use of inter-satellite communications. The information interaction of agents is considered taking into account the dynamics of the establishment of inter-satellite communication lines over time. It is assumed that communication within clusters is possible in real time, and communication between clusters is only possible within time intervals during which the necessary conditions are met. The purpose of information interaction protocols is the autonomous group solution (without the participation of the ground control complex) of the following tasks: 1) distribution and redistribution of requests within each cluster and 2) between clusters, 3) determination and coordination of the procedure for transmitting observation data to Earth during the establishment of communication sessions with ground points, and 4) search for an appropriate distribution of survey data between clusters using inter-satellite communication, ensuring a reduction in the time of delivery of survey data to Earth. In the process of participating in information interaction protocols, agents perform autonomous planning of the targeted use of their satellite. This planning includes finding an acceptable shooting plan and forming a flight plan taking into account the technical capabilities and limitations of the satellite, as well as taking into account the control of the electrical balance. Demonstration of capabilities and evaluation of the effectiveness of information technology is carried out using software implementation of its simulation model. The article provides a description of examples of output data that are generated during simulation modeling.