Zero-Debris Deorbit Analysis

ESA-compliant end-of-life disposal analysis for LEO satellites using multi-tool approach.

Overview

Comprehensive trade study analyzing natural decay vs active deorbit strategies for LEO satellites (400-800 km), evaluating compliance with ESA's 25-year post-mission disposal requirement.

Tools & Languages

• GMAT (Mission scenarios)
• MATLAB/Octave (Optimization algorithms)
• Python (Data analysis & visualization)

Key Results

• Active deorbit Delta-V: 87-193 m/s (400-800 km)
• Natural decay: 156k - 1.1B years (non-compliant)
• Conclusion: Active deorbit required for all studied altitudes

Repository Structure

├── gmat_scenarios/          # Mission design scripts
├── matlab_optimization/     # Trade study algorithms
├── python_analysis/         # Visualization tools
├── data/                    # Analysis results
└── plots/                   # Generated figures

Author

Ginevra Cianci - Aerospace Engineering