13 - Orbit determination and control system

Abstract

The increasing demand for versatility and accuracy in CubeSat mission's tasks has fostered the development of orbit determination and control systems that can guarantee precise guidance and navigation capabilities during the mission. The progress in the design and realization of orbit determination and control system is a key factor in the realization of advanced mission concepts such as CubeSats constellations, formation flying, and interplanetary CubeSat missions. This chapter describes the technologies and methods available to CubeSats, with reference to recent and planned missions. The problem of orbit determination is discussed analyzing ground-based and onboard technologies and methods. In the orbit control section, the most relevant maneuvers to CubeSats and their implementation are presented.