Cost Estimation Model for Mega-Constellation Deployment Missions

The economic problem is a primary consideration in mega-constellations design. This work aims to quantify the cost of mega-constellation deployment missions and analyze the contribution of reusable launch vehicles to cost savings. In this paper, the cost estimation model of mega-constellation deployment missions is investigated, consisting of the launch cost and satellite cost. Simulation examples demonstrate the high applicability of the cost estimation model and the considerable cost-effectiveness of the reusable launch vehicle in mega-constellation deployment missions.