Abstract: Based on the condition of orbit elements that meet gravity satellite formation, we provide orbit elements which can meet the requirement of in-orbit stabilization of three types of satellite formation (GRACE-type, Pendulum-type and Cartwheel-type) by using dynamic method in the simulation experiment, and verify its stability. Meanwhile, we analyze the compatibility of different types of formation to the gravity satellite mission. It is concluded that, the type with observation on two directions, such as Pendulum-type (along-track and cross-track) and the Cartwheel-type (along-track and radium), will help to update the gravity anisotropy sensitivity problem caused by the high correlation of inter-satellite observation from GRACE-type satellite formation with only one direction. This type is proven to be the satellite formation more suitable for gravity satellite mission.

Key words: Orbit element, Satellite formation, Inter-satellite observation, Satelite gravity