AEPH
Home > Higher Education and Practice > Vol. 2 No. 12 (HEP 2025) >
"AI + Orbit Design": A Preliminary Exploration of Intelligent Orbit Optimization Based on Data Generation Using STK
DOI: https://doi.org/10.62381/H251C25
Author(s)
Danhe Chen*, Jiahui Yang, Yao Shen
Affiliation(s)
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Nanjing University of Science and Technology, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China *Corresponding Author
Abstract
With the continuous breakthrough of technology in the aerospace field, the demand for compound innovative talents is becoming more and more urgent. The traditional orbital design or orbital dynamics and control teaching mainly depends on theoretical explanation, case teaching and problem calculation, and the evaluation ability to solve complex problems and practical engineering needs is insufficient. With the rapid development of artificial intelligence and computing capabilities, the integration of AI and platform visual simulation in teaching will guide students to master and use machine learning models for rapid orbit parameter selection and optimization. In this paper, a typical case of "comprehensive optimization of LEO constellation coverage performance" is designed. The constellation orbit is generated by STK simulation tool, and parametric modeling is carried out. Then Python is driven to call STK Connect to automatically extract performance indicators to form a structured data set. Then, AI model training is used to learn to use the optimization algorithm to quickly search the Pareto frontier. Finally, the optimal parameter combination obtained by calculation is re-entered into STK for high-fidelity simulation verification. This research design can not only greatly improve the computational efficiency and scheme optimization, but also significantly enhance the students' interest in learning and cultivate the cross-innovation ability of aerospace talents.
Keywords
AI+; Intelligent Orbit Design; STK; Aerospace Talent Cultivation.
References
[1] Zindani, E. M. (2025). Educational Orbit Simulation with Generative AI Agentic Workflow and Virtual Reality Visualisation (Bachelor"s thesis). Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronáutica (ITA). [2] Urbina-Barrios, F. A. (2025). Use of Artificial Intelligence in Aeronautical Education. In EDULEARN25 Proceedings (p. 10479). IATED. [3] Yang H W, Li S. Practice of Problem-Oriented Teaching in Orbital Mechanics to Cultivate Orbital Design Skills. Mechanics and Practice, 2021, 43(02): 268-272. [4] Wang Y, Han C. A Paradox and Teaching Reflection on the Concept of Orbital Perturbation. Mechanics and Practice, 2025, 47(04): 818-822. [5] Wang W J, Zhang Y S, Ren Y, et al. Research on Teaching Method of Spacecraft Orbital Dynamics Simulation Based on STK. Experimental Technology and Management, 2020, 37(05): 181-185. [6] Zhang G, Huo M Y, Qiu S, etc. Project-driven teaching reform based on space orbit design competition//Teaching Steering Committee of Aerospace Specialty in Colleges and Universities of Ministry of Education. The 5 th National Symposium on Education and Teaching of Aerospace Specialty in Colleges and Universities. Aerospace College of Harbin Institute of Technology, 2023: 737-742. [7] Qi R, Liu G Y. Teaching Design and Ideological and Political Practice of Spacecraft Orbit Maneuver. Mechanics and Practice, 2024, 46(04): 844-850. [8] The application of STK in the teaching of Beidou satellite navigation system. University Education, 2018, (07): 55-58. [9] Yu. STK software and its application in satellite navigation system. Ship Electronic Engineering, 2016, 36 (07): 62-65. [10]Hincapié M, Fernando N, Cañón M, et al. Designing a Python program for teaching Hohmann Transfer Orbit. Tecné, Episteme y Didaxis: TED, 2016, (39): 81-102.
Copyright @ 2020-2035 Academic Education Publishing House All Rights Reserved