An Attitude-Control System for an Earth-Pointing Skylark Rocket.

Abstract

A three-axis attitude-control system for a Skylark sounding rocket, which enables the vehicle to be used as a platform for earth-observation experiments, is described. The design constraints, in particular those arising from this type of experiment, are specified, and the design criteria for parts of the control system explained. The control system employs earth-albedo horizon-sensors in the roll and pitch axes and has velocity control about the yaw-axis. The components which comprise the system are described, together with their disposition in the vehicle. The performance of the control system in flight is tabulated for the prototype SL1081, and for the first two production vehicles SL1181 and SL1182. Possible improvements in the performance of the control system are suggested. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1975
Accession Number
ADA026741

Entities

People

  • R. J. Jude

Organizations

  • Royal Aircraft Establishment

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Attitude Control Systems
  • Control Systems
  • Design Criteria
  • Horizon Scanners
  • Observation
  • Platforms
  • Production
  • Prototypes
  • Rockets
  • Sounding Rockets

Readers

  • Control Systems Engineering.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.