Modeling and Flight Formation Strategy for the Commissioning of the Arara Constellation: A CubeSat Constellation for the Monitoring of the Blue Amazon

Recent years have seen the emergence of cubesats as a powerful tool for a wide range of space applications, including environmental monitoring and Earth observation. The Arara Constellation, for example, is designed to monitor Brazil’s vast maritime territory, known as the Blue Amazon, using a fleet of cubesats. A primary challenge in space missions is the commissioning process, which directly impacts mission duration and fuel efficiency. This study introduces a modeling approach to optimize the flight formation of the constellation, evaluating how different configurations affect mission performance. The goal of this study is to determine the optimal flight arrangement for the Arara Constellation and appropriately size its propulsion system to ensure efficient resource utilization while enhancing both mission lifespan and operational effectiveness. This analysis is performed through simulations and performance assessments, offering insights into the most effective deployment and maneuvering strategies for the constellation.