On-Orbit Dynamics and Control of Large Scaled Membrane with Satellites at its Corners

Abstract

A large thin membrane space structure which is deployed and controlled by a set of satellites at its corners has been proposed as a promising future space structure for missions requiring large surface areas, such as large solar powered satellites or large communications antennas. This paper discusses the dynamics and control of such a large scaled membrane structure on orbit. Modeled as multiple small rigid panels connected to each other by springs and dash pods, its dynamics on orbit, especially the interactions of the attitude and orbital motion, is analyzed by simulations. A simple control law to keep the shape and attitude of the membrane is proposed and its performance is examined by numerical analyses and simulations.