Low Friction Demonstrator for Magnetic Actuation of Spacecraft

Abstract

Proximity operations in space robotics involve careful maneuvering and allow for applications such as docking and inspection after extensive testing. This work presents a testbed which simulates magnetic actuation for proximity operations in a low friction environment similar to microgravity. Eddy-current actuation demonstrates an example application of the testbed. A magnet mounted to a translating stage moves towards and away from a non-conductive aluminum target, which causes it to experience attraction and repulsion. This work runs an example trajectory on the testbed and compares the results to those for a simulation of an analytical model for the eddy-current forces. The testbed accurately runs the designated trajectory and the measured results align with the predicted outcomes. Future work can adapt the testbed to test additional magnetic actuators for docking and other applications in space robotics.