Abstract
The linearized dynamics and stability of a two-craft Coulomb tether formation is investigated. With a Coulomb tether the relative distance between two satellites is controlled using electrostatic Coulomb forces. A charge feedback law is introduced to stabilize the relative distance between the satellites to a constant value. Compared to previous Coulomb thrusting research, this is the first feedback control law that stabilizes a particular formation shape. The two craft are connected by an electrostatic tether that is capable of both tensile and compressive forces. As a result, the two-craft formation will essentially act as a long, slender near-rigid body. Interspacecraft Coulomb forces cannot influence the inertial angular momentum of this formation. However, the differential gravitational attraction can be exploited to stabilize the attitude of this Coulomb tether formation about an orbit nadir direction. Stabilizing the separation distance will also stabilize the in-plane rotation angle, whereas the out-of-plane rotational motion remains unaffected. The Coulomb tether has been modeled as a massless, elastic component. The elastic strength of this connection is controlled through a spacecraft charge control law.
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