An Automated Approach to Maneuver Campaign Management for SkySats

Planet Labs PBC currently operates a fleet of 21 high-resolution imaging, Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites called SkySats comprised of both a sun-synchronous constellation and a lower inclination constellation. Due to their low altitude, operational constraints, and mission-driven requirements on image resolution and coverage, there is a need to perform routine stationkeeping and occasional constellation reconfiguration maneuver campaigns for these satellites. The Mission Systems team at Planet is currently implementing an automated and robust maneuver management system that autonomously plans and executes all SkySat maneuvers in order to reduce operator workload and improve overall constellation management efficiency. This paper describes the architecture of this system and how it has been designed to handle heterogeneous maneuver campaign types under various operational constraints. Finally, results from recent altitude raising campaigns for both constellations are presented