Validation and optimization of the GSAMQ analytical propagator for spin-stabilized satellite

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to validate the analytical propagator through simulations comparing the results with the real data and to optimize the work's source code so that it is processed faster. This work analyzes the use of the quadrupole model in the Earth's magnetic field when an analytical propagator calculates eddy current and residual magnetic torques in spin-stabilized satellites. For that, the components of the gravity gradient torque, the solar radiation torque and aerodynamics torque are also included. The simulations are carried out for a predetermined period and use data from the SCD1 Brazilian satellite, provided by the National Institute for Space Research (INPE). The results are then compared with the real data to validate the propagator. The propagator with the quadrupole model is called GSAMQ and uses the mean deviations of the magnitude of the spin velocity, and the angles of right ascension and declination of the spin axis as evaluation parameters. A statistical approach is included in this analysis and shows the model's accuracy.