Comparison of Relative Motion Models for Spacecraft Flying in Formation

This paper presents a brief overview of the models of satellites’ relative motion, using relative coordinates to describe their position. We compare the accuracy of the Cartesian and curvilinear coordinates in linear motion models. It is shown that the use of curvilinear coordinates allows us to increase the accuracy of the linear model of motion, especially for large relative orbits. The result is presented in the scope of the Hill–Clohessy–Wiltshire (HCW) and Schweighart–Sedwick (SS) models of motion.