A MATLAB-based orbital simulation and state estimation tool using Unscented Kalman Filtering for accurate spacecraft trajectory prediction and analysis. Made by Krystian Filipek.
- LEO (Low Earth Orbit) - ISS-like trajectories
- MEO (Medium Earth Orbit) - GPS constellation orbits
- HEO (Highly Elliptical Orbit) - Tundra orbits
- GEO (Geostationary Orbit) - Communication satellite orbits
| Model | Description |
|---|---|
| J2 Effects | Earth's oblateness perturbation |
| J3 & J4 Effects | Higher-order gravitational harmonics |
| Atmospheric Drag | Density-based resistance modeling |
| Third-body Gravity | Sun/Moon gravitational effects |
| Solar Radiation | Photon pressure modeling |
- Cambridge (52.167°N, 0.039°W)
- Goldstone (35.4266°N, 116.8892°W)
- Canberra (35.4033°S, 148.9819°E)
The simulator provides comprehensive visualization tools including:
- Real-time 3D trajectory plotting
- Ground track visualization
- Sky plot for visibility analysis
- UKF error analysis charts
- Drag coefficient estimation plots
- Force magnitude breakdown
The simulator implements:
- Unscented Kalman Filter for robust state estimation
- Complete orbital dynamics with major perturbations
- F10.7-based atmospheric density modeling
- Earth rotation and coordinate transforms
- Ground station measurement modeling
- Launch MATLAB
- Navigate to the project directory
- Run the main simulation:
run('orbit_sim.m') - Use the GUI controls to:
- Select orbit type
- Configure perturbations
- Adjust space weather parameters
- Control simulation flow
- Tested on Matlab R2025a
- Aerospace Toolbox
- Statistics and Machine Learning Toolbox
- Mapping Toolbox
I made this project to improve my understanding of:
- Orbital mechanics fundamentals
- Advanced Kalman filtering techniques
- Real-world space navigation challenges
- Ground station visibility analysis for Spaceflight society (Lander Project)
Developed by kfilipekk