Visual Simulation System Of In-Orbit Small Satellite Movement Based On OpenGL

Astronautics simulation technology is a newly developing technology. With the quick development of computer technology, astronautics simulation, especially visual simulation, has been playing a more and more important role in the cause of astronautics. In this paper, a visual simulation system of in-orbit small satellite movement is developed according to realtime dynamic-display technology on a three-dimension basis. The simulation system produces 2D & 3D movement of in-orbit small satellite, which proviedes lots of graphic references to the small satellite group of Najing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics.In this paper, the development and application of astronautics simulation technology are analyzed. The modules which compose the system are carefully designed and the key technologies to construct the modules are elaborated in details.The simulation system consists of 3D modeling module, 3D scenario render module, data transmission module and the interface of the system. The visual simulation system, which is developed in Visual C++6.0 environment, equipped with the OpenGL technology and many sorts of the API function of Windows, is able to fulfill all the aforementioned functions.The design of the system is based on the theory of object-oriented programming, which has an easily-understood structure and convenient to further on-going development. The function of simulation and supervision can be realized in the system. Besides, the system provides 3D models and scenario for space cruise. The outcome of the research gives a strong support to the astronautics simulation and OOP-oriented 3D-modeling technology.