What is it about?
We have assumed control of a small 6u cubesat (the deputy) and performed modeling and simulations for rendezvous with and proximity operations around a chief satellite. The deputy performs a rendezvous with the chief satellite in less than one orbit, and then performs proximity operations to keep itself radially behind the chief, from the Earth's perspective, for as long as possible while optimizing fuel. The Hill-Clohessy-Wiltshire equations were used for the motion of the satellite, and it was found that the deputy may remain radially behind the chief for up to 2 months on 0.5kg of fuel.
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Why is it important?
Our findings show that a small deputy satellite can rendezvous and perform proximity operations radially behind a chief satellite within less than an orbit. As the deputy is therefore 'hidden' from telescopes and ground-based tracking measures, this work emphasizes the need for space situational awareness and improved tracking measures.
Perspectives
This was a very interesting publication to work on, and shows the abilities of not only our own spacecraft but others as well. It was fun to work on and I believe there are many avenues that will open up due to this work.
Kristen Tetreault
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Real-Time Optimal Control, & Tracking of Autonomous Micro-Satellite Proximity Operations, September 2016, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA),
DOI: 10.2514/6.2016-5617.
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