M Y Ovchinnikov

Attitude control system for the first swedish nanosatellite “MUNIN”

Abstract The paper describes the passive magnetic attitude control system developed for the Swedish nanosatellite MUNIN, its composition, and the results of the mathematical modeling of the satellite motion around its center of mass under the effects of external torques and control by this attitude control system. The satellite MUNIN is to be oriented along the local vector of intensity of the geomagnetic field. The problems, which are expediently considered hereafter are formulated too.

Closed relative trajectories for formation flying with single-input control

We study the problem of formation shape control under the constraints on the thrust direction. Formations composed of small satellites are usually subject to serious limitations for power consumption, mass, and volume of the attitude and orbit control system (AOCS). If the purpose of the formation flying mission does not require precise tracking of a given relative trajectory, AOCS of satellites may be substantially simplified; however, the capacity of AOCS to ensure a bounded or even periodic relative motion has to be studied first. We consider a formation of two satellites; the deputy one is equipped with a passive attitude control system that provides one-axis stabilization and a propulsion system that consists of one or two thrusters oriented along the stabilized axis. The relative motion of the satellites is modeled by the Schweighart-Sedwick linear equations taking into account the effect of perturbations. We prove that both in the case of passive magnetic attitude stabilization and spin stabilization for all initial relative positions and velocities of satellites there exists a control guaranteeing their periodic relative motion.

RUSSIAN LAUNCH OPPORTUNITIES FOR SMALL SATELLITES

Abstract Various opportunities to launch small satellites by Russian missiles, launchers and spacecraft are discussed. The emphasis is on Russian conversion missiles.

METHODS TO OBTAIN THE PRINCIPAL PARAMETERS OF SIMPLE ATTITUDE CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SMALL SATELLITES

Abstract The present article deals with methods to determine the dynamical characteristics of satellites with passive and semipassive attitude control systems (ACS). On the basis of determined dynamical characteristics the principal parameters of ACS are obtained. The ACS interacting with the geomagnetic are considered here. Its reputed the ACS of such kind are wide used and simple one. Analytical relationships of these characteristics with the basic attitude control system parameters are presented, and the most important peculiarities of such systems that were found while carrying out satellite dynamics analysis are discussed. The results of system parameters optimization with certain criteria are also given where possible. The results presented may be applied at the preliminary design phase of satellite development.

Russian Small Satellites and Means to Launch

ABSTRACT The brief review of Russia small satellite projects that have been realized or are under consideration to be realized and means available to launch them into orbits are presented. Some of projects represent idea only without concrete scheme of execution.

Optical thomograph of the Universe

Abstract The concept of astrometric supervision of the Universe on the basis of using the extralong base for angular measurements realized by launching 3–4 spacecrafts in different directions from the Earth upto the distance of 500 AU is proposed. Under various variants of scientific and service payload of spacecrafts it will allow to execute direct measurement of distances upto stars at the distance of 1 ÷ 10 light-years. Within this distance ours and Domestic Group galaxies, including Andromeda Nebula are located. In perspective variants based on multiaperture optical systems the direct measurement at the distances upto boundary objects of the Universe, that is, quasars located on distance upto 10 billion light-years may be executed. The problems of sensor, and system of communication design also the concept of a spacecraft are considered.