Low-Thrust Spacecraft Formation Keeping
Abstract
Replacing large and costly satellites with formations of smaller satellites, flying in close proximity, is a current subject of interest. One of the keys to successful formation flying is the control system that maintains the formation geometry and provides proper positioning of each member of the formation. This study compares two active control system designs that can be used to maintain a formation composed of microsatellites with limited on-off thrusting capabilities in low Earth orbit. The two evaluated designs are based on a linear approach using optimal control theory and on a nonlinear approach based on Lyapunov stability concepts. In assessing the effectiveness of each controller, the performance criteria were the accuracy with which the formation is maintained and the propellant consumption. The final selection is tradeoff between fuel consumption and controller robustness based on model uncertainties.
Recommended Citation
P. Vignal and H. J. Pernicka, "Low-Thrust Spacecraft Formation Keeping," Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), Jan 2006.
Department(s)
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Keywords and Phrases
Satellite Positioning
International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)
0022-4650
Document Type
Article - Journal
Document Version
Citation
File Type
text
Language(s)
English
Rights
© 2006 American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), All rights reserved.
Publication Date
01 Jan 2006
