Abstract

This paper deals with the attitude motion of LEO satellites with deployable side panels designed for passive aerodynamic stabilization in a rarefied atmosphere. The influence of the aerodynamic and gravitational torques on the planar attitude motion near the unstable and stable equilibrium positions is studied. The presence of the unstable equilibrium position and small perturbations such as the oscillations of the flexible panels is the cause of chaos. A critical altitude is found above which the chaos is possible. The equations of planar attitude motion of the satellite with deployed flexible panels are obtained. The chaotic behavior of the system is demonstrated through numerical simulations of the attitude motion of a 3U CubeSat. The results of this paper can be used to analyze the applicability of passive aerodynamic stabilization for LEO satellites.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.