Systems analysis on spacecraft design

Abstract

The unpredictability and uncertainty of the new space mission has induced new challenges to the traditional spacecraft design method, by which the satellite and the launch vehicle are designed individually. According to the system theory and the system approach, a novel integrated design model for spacecraft is put forward in this article. Firstly, the feasibility of the proposed model is analyzed. Then, the qualitative analysis on the integration design scheme for the subsystems (including the sensors, the controller, the attitude & orbit control systems, the structure and power supply & distribution system, etc.) of the traditional satellite and the carrier rocket is carried out. Lastly, the advantages of the integration model are demonstrated through the quantitative research, especially in the uncertain space mission.