Acquisition of Modular Low Earth Orbit Satellites for Improved Intelligence Collection

Abstract

The primary objective of this study is to investigate and analyze improved multi-source intelligence (multi-INT) data collection through low latency, cross-communicating, modular low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. This research examines the current acquisition process and system engineering approach to multi-INT data collection via command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) satellites, specifically focusing on time (production time and system life) and cost. The project introduces several proposed low latency, cross-communicating, modular LEO satellite systems for improved multi-INT data collection. It then provides a comparison of geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) satellite life-cycle costs versus the lifecycle costs of LEO satellites and analyzes the maintainability, upgradeability, interoperability, reliability, and safety/security (MUIRS) benefits of smaller, faster-toorbit satellites that could be launched in weeks or months.