Simulation analysis of starlink constellation coverage based on STK

Abstract

In this paper, the coverage model of Starlink constellation is established by means of the Satellite Simulation Kit (STK), and the coverage capability of Starlink constellation to Washington, Beijing, Taiwan and Kiev, which are located in north latitude 70 degree to south latitude 70 degree, is simulated and analyzed in detail. The simulation results show that the Starlink constellation can reach 100% coverage between the north latitude about 53 degree to south latitude about 53 degree, and the 1.5v Starlink satellites begin to cover the bipolar areas up to the present. Obviously, the Starlink constellation is developing steadily towards global coverage. According to simulation results, the Starlink constellation can achieve 24-hour full coverage in high latitudes such as Washington, Beijing and Kiev, and the coverage satellites number is large. But the Starlink constellation can’t achieve 24-hour full coverage in Taiwan and other low latitude regions. In conclusion, the Starlink constellation coverage capacity of all regions in the world is improving steadily and in high speed.

Keywords

• starlink|satellite simulation kit|giant constellation|muti-coverage|military application potential