Gyro-based attitude reference systems for communications satellites
Abstract
This paper presents three concepts for gyro-based attitude sensing systems at geosynchronous altitudes, ranging from basic gyrocompassing with a single gyro, an earth sensor, and a sun sensor, to sophisticated three-gyro concepts. Stellar references (other than sun sensors) are specifically excluded. All the concepts can achieve a pointing accuracy of 0.05 deg (3 sigma) in pitch and roll and 0.1 deg in yaw, with the best concept achieving 0.01 deg in all axes. Preliminary system mechanizations are also discussed. The detailed analysis includes simplifying the control laws and defining operational requirements and procedures. Finally, the concepts are compared in terms of accuracy, weight, power, reliability, major operational features, and cost/risk factors.
- Publication:
-
7th Communications Satellite Systems Conference
- Pub Date:
- 1978
- Bibcode:
- 1978coss.conf..258H
- Keywords:
-
- Attitude Gyros;
- Communication Satellites;
- Optimal Control;
- Pointing Control Systems;
- Satellite Attitude Control;
- Systems Engineering;
- Feedback Control;
- Position Errors;
- Reliability Analysis;
- Star Trackers;
- System Effectiveness;
- Spacecraft Instrumentation