Optimal attitude trajectory planning method for CMG actuated spacecraft

Abstract

This paper presents an optimal attitude trajectory planning method for the spacecraft equipped with control moment gyros as the actuators. Both the fixed-time energy-optimal and synthesis performance optimal cases are taken into account. The corresponding nonsingular attitude maneuvering trajectories (i.e. open-loop control trajectories) with the consideration of a series of constraints are generated via Radau pseudospectral method. Compared with the traditional steering laws, the optimal steering law designed by this method can explicitly avoid the singularity from the global perspective. A linear quadratic regulator closed-loop controller is designed to guarantee the trajectory tracking performance in the presence of initial errors, inertia uncertainties and external disturbances. Simulation results verify the validity and feasibility of the proposed open-loop and closed-loop control methods.