An Algorithm for Autonomous Longitude and Eccentricity Control for Geostationary Spacecraft

Author

B. P. Emma
Henry J. Pernicka, Missouri University of Science and TechnologyFollow

Abstract

In order to lower the cost of maintaining satellites in orbit, spacecraft designers are seeking flight software that provides more autonomy. Longitude and eccentricity are good candidates for autonomous control with geostationary spacecraft. The algorithm presented in this paper couples longitude control with eccentricity control. Longitude drift is modeled in one dimension and controlled with a quadratic equation predicting the spacecraft Earth reference longitude after a predetermined amount of time. After the basic longitude control algorithm was written, a differential corrections scheme was added resulting in an improved longitude error of +/- 0.015 degrees longitude. Finally, longitude control and two-part maneuvers for eccentricity control were implemented. The result is good longitude control and eccentricity control to the desired mission constraints.

Recommended Citation

B. P. Emma and H. J. Pernicka, "An Algorithm for Autonomous Longitude and Eccentricity Control for Geostationary Spacecraft," Advances in the Astronautical Sciences, Univelt Inc., Jan 2002.

Meeting Name

Spaceflight Mechanics 2002

Department(s)

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Algorithms; Differential Equations; Geostationary Satellites; Maneuverability; Mathematical Models; Orbits

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

0065-3438

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2002 Univelt Inc., All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2002