Satellite constellations using nodally-adjusted repeating ground track orbits

摘要

A satellite system and method is disclosed. A plurality of satellites includes one or more satellites in circular orbits and at least one satellite of the plurality of satellites in an elliptcal orbit. Each of the plurality of satellites has substantially the same nodal regression rate. An exemplary constellation uses an inclination of substantially 63.43°. The elliptical orbit can be implemented by a refuelable satellite used to make low perigee passes over a location of interest.