A SYSTEM FOR PASSIVE GRAVITY-GRADIENT STABILIZA TION OF EARTH SATELLITES,
Abstract
The satellite 1963 22A was successfully captured into a condition of passive, gravity-gradient stabilization. All elements of the stabilization system, including magnetic dispin, magnetic orientation devices, the extendible boom, the damping spring, and the attitude detection system performed satisfactorily. An unexpected high frequency oscillation of the boom and satellite system was observed which was most probably a dynamic effect resulting from thermal bending. This has caused the satellite to stabilize with a maximum deviation off the vertical of approximately 10 degrees. The objective of the gravity-gradient stabilization for the 22A satellite was to have the antennas directed downward within 20 degrees of the local vertical at all times. This objective has been successfully accomplished by the satellite's passive gravity-gradient attitude stabilization system. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0417521
Entities
People
- Frederick F. Mobley
- Robert E. Fischell
Organizations
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory