Bouquet: a Satellite Constellation Visualization Program for Walkers and Lattice Flower Constellations

Abstract

The development of the Flower Constellation theory offers an expanded framework to utilize constellations of satellites for tangible interests. To realize the full potential of this theory, the beta version of Bouquet was developed as a practical computer application that visualizes and edits Flower Constellations in a user-friendly manner. Programmed using C++ and OpenGL within the Qt software development environment for use on Windows systems, this initial version of Bouquet is capable of visualizing numerous user defined satellites in both 3D and 2D, and plot trajectories corresponding to arbitrary coordinate frames. The ultimate goal of Bouquet is to provide a viable open source alternative to commercial satellite orbit analysis programs. As such, the coding of Bouquet puts heavy emphasis on flexibility, upgradability and methods to provide continued support through open source collaboration.