Initial Tracking, Fast Identification in a Swarm and Combined SLR and GNSS Orbit Determination of the TUBIN Small Satellite

Flight dynamics is a topic often overlooked by operators of small satellites without propulsion systems, as two-line elements (TLE) are easily accessible and accurate enough for most ground segment needs. However, the advent cheap miniaturized global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receivers laser retroreflectors well modern, easy-to-use, open-source software tools have made it easier to accurately determine an orbit or identify spacecraft in swarm, which helps with improving space situational awareness orbits that more crowded. In this paper, we present missions generate predictions launch early phase (LEOP), swarm after rideshare launch, carry out routine determination from multiple sources tracking data. The TUBIN mission’s LEOP set new standard at Technische Universität Berlin: first positioning (GPS) data were downloaded less than four hours separation, allowed successful stations, could be identified soon TLE released Space-Track. Routine GPS ranging (SLR) was carried over several months, quality analyzed. range residuals prediction errors found larger those SLR missions, due difficulty modeling atmospheric drag tumbling, non-spherical low orbital altitudes.