An investigation of satellite maneuvering and orientation strategies using an air bearing table

Date
2005-12
Authors
Kuhn, Eckhardt
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch
Abstract
In this thesis, the maneuvering and orientation of an inspection/service satellite is investigated. This thesis will demonstrate a simplified satellite maneuver around another satellite (for docking purposes). This is illustrated with a cart on an air bearing table (frictionless environment) which simplifies the problem to two dimensions. A mathematical model of the system was designed and simulated (Matlab) for this maneuver. With the simulation, different strategies were considered to maneuver the cart in a circle around another object. The conclusion was made that approximating the circle with segments would conserve propellant. This strategy was implemented on the air bearing table.
Description
Thesis (MScEng (Electrical and Electronic Engineering))--University of Stellenbosch, 2005.
Keywords
Artificial satellites -- Control systems, Pointing control systems (Astronautics), Dissertations -- Electronic engineering, Theses -- Electronic engineering
Citation