The main difference between a satellite constellation and a satellite swarm is in how the satellites are controlled and coordinated:
A satellite constellation consists of multiple satellites working together under coordinated control from the ground. Each satellite has an assigned role and ground controllers command the satellites to work in a coordinated fashion to achieve the mission objectives. The satellites do not communicate with each other directly. Examples include GPS, Iridium, and Orbcomm.
A satellite swarm consists of multiple satellites designed to operate autonomously as a group, with the ability to communicate among themselves and coordinate their activities. The swarm requires minimal supervision from ground control. The satellites share data and can dynamically allocate tasks and determine which satellites are best positioned to make observations. Examples include NASA’s ANTS and Starling concepts.
In summary, a satellite swarm is a more autonomous system that can reconfigure and adapt as needed to achieve mission goals, while satellite constellations have set roles for each satellite under central control from the ground. Both approaches have advantages for different applications.
