Formation
In space and astronautical engineering, formation refers to a group of two or more spacecraft that fly in a coordinated manner to achieve a specific objective. The spacecraft in a formation can be in different configurations, such as flying in a line, triangle, or other geometric shapes. The formation flying requires precise control and coordination among the spacecraft, which can be achieved through various methods, including communication links, sensors, and algorithms. Formation flying has many applications in space missions, such as Earth observation, astrophysics, and planetary exploration. For example, a formation of spacecraft can be used to observe the same object from different angles, which can provide more accurate and comprehensive data. Another application is to use a formation to explore a planetary system, where each spacecraft can perform a different task, such as mapping, sampling, or communication.
Your Previous Searches
Random Picks
- Low Earth Orbit: Low Earth Orbit (LEO) is a region of space that is relatively close to Earth, extending from the Earth's surface up to an altitude of approximately 2,000 kilometers. Satellites in LEO orbit the Earth at a high speed, completing one orbit in ... Read More >>
- Orbital Mechanics: Orbital mechanics is the branch of astronautical engineering that deals with the motion of artificial satellites and space vehicles around celestial bodies. It involves the study of the forces acting on a spacecraft, such as gravity, atmosp ... Read More >>
- Market Feasibility: Market feasibility is the process of determining the viability of a product or service in a specific market. In the context of space and astronautical engineering, market feasibility involves analyzing the demand for space-related products ... Read More >>
Top News
Check out this interactive map of the early universe, considered largest ever cr...
A team of astronomers have put together the largest, most detailed map of the universe ever created – and you can explore it now....
News Source: USA Today on 2025-06-12
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory is about to totally transform astronomy...
With the ability to scan the entire southern night sky every three days, the huge Vera C. Rubin Observatory could be about to start solving the mysteries of the universe, from dark matter to Planet Ni...
News Source: New Scientist on 2025-06-12
Trump's proposed science cuts will have huge consequences...
The universe will still be there to marvel at, despite brutal cuts set to hit NASA and the National Science Foundation's budgets. But the damage to future research will be long-lasting, says Chanda Pr...
News Source: New Scientist on 2025-06-11
Starlink satellites are leaking radio signals that may ruin astronomy...
Our ability to study faint radio signals from when the first stars began to form is being threatened by SpaceX's Starlink satellites, which seem to be unintentionally leaking radio signals that overpo...
News Source: New Scientist on 2025-06-09
Asteroids around Venus pose possible 'invisible threat' to Earth: Should you be ...
A swarm of large asteroids likely lurking around Venus could one day pose an "invisible threat" to Earth if left unchecked, astronomers have warned....
News Source: USA Today on 2025-06-06