Envisioning an Optimal Network of Space-Based Lasers for Orbital Debris Remediation
<|reference_start|>Envisioning an Optimal Network of Space-Based Lasers for Orbital Debris Remediation: The rapid increase in resident space objects, including satellites and orbital debris, threatens the safety and sustainability of space missions. This paper explores orbital debris remediation using laser ablation with a network of collaborative space-based lasers. A novel delta-v vector analysis framework quantifies the effects of multiple simultaneous laser-to-debris (L2D) engagements by leveraging a vector composition of imparted delta-v vectors. The paper introduces the Concurrent Location-Scheduling Problem (CLSP), which optimizes the placement of laser platforms and schedules L2D engagements to maximize debris remediation capacity. Due to the computational complexity of CLSP, it is decomposed into two sequential subproblems: (1) optimal laser platform locations are determined using the Maximal Covering Location Problem, and (2) a novel integer linear programming-based approach schedules L2D engagements within the network configuration to maximize remediation capacity. Computational experiments are conducted to evaluate the proposed framework's effectiveness under various mission scenarios, demonstrating key network functions such as collaborative nudging, deorbiting, and just-in-time collision avoidance. A cost-benefit analysis further explores how varying the number and distribution of laser platforms affects debris remediation capacity, providing insights into optimizing the performance of space-based laser networks.<|reference_end|>
@article{rogers2024envisioning,
    title={Envisioning an Optimal Network of Space-Based Lasers for Orbital Debris
  Remediation},
    author={David O. Williams Rogers, Matthew C. Fox, Paul R. Stysley, Hang Woon
  Lee},
    journal={arXiv preprint arXiv:2409.03146},
    year={2024},
    archivePrefix={arXiv},
    eprint={2409.03146},
    primaryClass={math.OC cs.SY eess.SY}
}