In Orbit Demonstration of a FDIR Algorithm for the Attitude Control System of Micro Interplanetary Spacecraft PROCYON

Abstract

A Fault Detection, Isolation, and Recovery (FDIR) algorithm for attitude control systems is a key technology to increasing the reliability and survivability of spacecraft. Micro/nano interplanetary spacecraft, which are rapidly evolving in recent years, also require robust FDIR algorithms. However, the implementation of FDIR algorithms to these micro/nano spacecraft is difficult because of the limitations of their resources (power, mass, cost, and so on). This paper shows a strategy of how to construct a FDIR algorithm in the limited resources, taking examples from micro deep space probe PROCYON. The strategy focuses on function redundancies and multi-layer FDIR. These ideas are integrated to suit the situation of micro/nano interplanetary spacecraft and demonstrated in orbit by the PROCYON mission. The in-orbit results are discussed in detail to emphasize the effectiveness of the FDIR algorithm.