Multiple instrument coverage analysis

In the Space Station era comprehensive investigations of the physical processes of the earth will rely on observations from several types of space-based instruments. Preliminary studies indicate that, due to projected limitations on spacecraft and launch-vehicle capability, these complementary instrument sets may have to be distributed among several spacecraft. The task of analyzing the coincident coverage areas between instruments operating from multiple spacecraft will be complex. Such factors as the instruments' observing capabilities, orbital parameters, and viewing constraints will have to be considered. To aid in this analysis a computer model is being developed. This model has the capability, among others, to compute the coincident coverage areas between two independently orbiting instruments. This paper describes the model, its capabilities, and several sample applications.