ADVANCED TECHNIQUES FOR ANALYZING AND IMPROVING GRAVITY GRADIENT SATELLITE POINTING ACCURACIES AT HIGH ORBITAL ALTITUDES. VOLUME I. ANALYSIS.
Abstract
This study is directed toward the investigation of the problems, and possible solutions, associated with high pointing accuracies for gravity gradient systems at high orbital altitudes. Two major areas of investigation are considered. In the area of system response, consideration is given to determining the configuration parameters and design techniques which provide the greatest tolerance to disturbance torques. In the area of disturbances, the parameters and design techniques which minimize the amplitudes of the disturbance torques are considered. Specific objectives were to present fundamental gravity gradient characteristics and show methods of analysis. The problem areas are defined by presenting the detailed basic characteristics of a simple single body system and noting its deficiencies. A series of candidate designs are obtained by augmenting the single body system with design techniques which tend to remove its deficiencies. The analytical approach consists of studying the relationship of the system singularities with respect to harmonics of orbit rate. It is shown that for a system with properly located singularities, the influencing parameters in determining ultimate state response are the proper pole and zero locations and damping has a minor effect. The analysis is presented in Volume I and the derivation of dynamic equations, disturbance expressions, and station keeping parameters is contained in Volume II. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0817336
Entities
People
- H. S. Blackiston
- J. L. Palmer
- R. L. Farrenkopf
Organizations
- TRW Inc.