Distributed Satellite Configuration Optimization Method for Target Positioning Accuracy Enhancement

Satellite-based target positioning is indispensable in disaster relief, hazard monitoring, and other fields. With the development of autonomous driving, precise mapping, and related domains, the demand for high-accuracy target positioning has become increasingly prominent. Distributed satellite systems exhibit significant advantages in positioning accuracy due to their multi-angle observation capabilities and data redundancy, making them widely applicable. However, the target positioning accuracy of such system is influenced by their spatial configuration. Optimizing satellite configurations is critical for achieving high-precision target positioning. To address the challenge, this paper proposes a configuration optimization method tailored for distributed satellite systems to enhance target positioning accuracy. Based on the angle-only target positioning model of distributed optical satellites, the proposed method first derives a positioning accuracy evaluation metric and then designs an optimization function incorporating practical observational constraints. Subsequently, inspired by D’Alembert’s principle, the issue of infinite optimal solutions leading to suboptimal optimization outcomes is resolved. Furthermore, the Differential Evolution Algorithm is employed to optimize satellite configurations. Simulation results demonstrate that the configurations optimized by the proposed method significantly improve target positioning accuracy, achieving an optimal positioning-accuracy-oriented configuration.