Methodology for optimizing a Constellation of a Lunar Global Navigation System with a multi-objective optimization algorithm

Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) are not only used in terrestrial applications, but also Low-Earth orbit satellites and higher altitude missions. NASA’s Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission has demonstrated the capabilities of existing GNSS systems to provide positioning, navigation, timing (PNT) services Cis-lunar space. The resurgence plans by national space agencies for Lunar exploration presents a need accurate, precise, reliable navigation ensure safety success future Moreover, increased amount Moon missions over recent years, shows requirement Low orbiters, landers, rovers, manned on Earth, an opportunity study potential design requirements expected performance constellation. We have approached this problem through methodology multi-objective optimization; numerically simulating orbits, using Position Dilution Precision (PDoP) as figure merit optimize set 200 constellation designs improving them gradually 1864 generations. Over 12,000 unique were generated with best 10 constellations presented paper consideration further study. Compared literature, these achieved 44% improvement PDoP (2.73) same number each constellation, meeting planned