Some Problems of Optimum Three-Dimensional Attitude Control of Spacecraft

Abstract

Here a study will be made of the optimum three dimensional attitude control of a spacecraft. It will be assumed that the stabilization is accomplished by two pairs of reaction jets, one pair of which is fixed in the vehicle so as to produce a torque about the axis of symmetry, the second pair is mounted in a Cardan suspension and can produce a torque about an arbitrary axis perpendicular to the symmetry axis.The following problems can be solved: 1.The optimum attitude control of the axis of rotation when this corresponds with the symmetry axis of the spacecraft. Conditions can be found in order that the attitude control can be achieved by one pair of jets fixed in the spacecraft2.The optimum attitude control of a spacecraft rotating about a principal axis of inertia which is not a symmetry axis, and3.The optimum three-dimensional attitude control of an axisymmetric spacecraft in the general case.