Generating Realistic Two-Line Elements for Notional Space Vehicles and Constellations

TL;DR

This paper introduces a method to generate realistic two-line element sets for notional space vehicles and constellations, enhancing simulation accuracy for future satellite systems.

Contribution

It presents a novel approach to generate two-line elements with parameters that closely mimic real satellite behavior, including an improved mean motion calculation.

Findings

Generated two-line elements closely match real satellite data

Enhanced mean motion calculation improves orbit prediction accuracy

Method supports realistic simulation of future satellite constellations

Abstract

As space becomes increasingly populated with new satellites and systems, modeling and simulating existing and future systems becomes more important. The two-line element set has been a standard format for sharing data about a satellite's orbit since the 1960s, and well-developed algorithms can predict the future location of satellites based on this data. In order to simulate potential future systems, especially when mixed with existing systems, data must be generated to represent the desired orbits. We present a means to create two-line element sets with parameters that closely resemble real satellite behavior, and rely on a novel approach to calculate the mean motion for even greater accuracy.