# ADR 003: Historical Orbital Score as a Replaceable Policy

- HTML version: https://robbiepalmer.me/projects/autonomic-satellite-swarm/adrs/003-historical-score-as-policy
- Project: Autonomic Satellite Swarm (https://robbiepalmer.me/projects/autonomic-satellite-swarm.md)
- Status: Accepted
- Date: 2026-09-04

# Context

The paper's candidacy score combines a simplified energy estimate with time around an idealized
fixed-longitude orbit. It was suitable for explaining a proof of concept, but it is not validated
guidance, navigation, control, or mission planning. Coupling it directly to the coordinator made the
software appear more physically authoritative than the evidence justified.

# Decision

Retain the calculation as `HistoricalOrbitalScorer` behind the `CandidacyScorer` interface. Preserve
the published example outputs as characterization tests. Add coordinate, physical-parameter, exact-
arrival, and division-edge validation.

Do not replace it with another invented formula during the software revival. A new scorer requires
separate research, stated assumptions, comparative scenarios, and validation evidence.

# Consequences

The project remains traceable to the paper without presenting historical assumptions as current
science. Coordination work can continue independently. The default demonstration is illustrative,
and every public description must say so.

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