Optimum Polar Satellite Networks for Continuous Earth Coverage

The problem of providing continuous coverage of portions of the earth's surface by means of polar satellite networks is considered, and an optimum arrangement is proposed in which the motion of satellites in one orbital plane is synchronized with that of the satellites in adjacent planes. Relations are developed between the numbers of satellites, their relative positions, and the required minimum latitude of continuous coverage. The method of solution of these relations is outlined, arid an example is presented. The resultant number of satellites required for this case as a function of altitude is compared with the number required for a symmetric, nonsynchronous set of satellite orbits.