Consideration of Gravity Gradient Stabilization for Orion

Abstract

Certain ORION missions may require three axis stabilization. Since ORION's physical size severely limits its onboard fuel storage capability, passive stabilization techniques warrant investigation. This paper shows the development of linearized equations of motion and regions of stability with respect to gravity gradient stabilization. Gravity gradient stabilization by itself provides little yaw restoring torque; therefore, additional torque generating devices are necessary to augment the gravity gradient effect. Control moment gyros, reaction wheels, and magnetic torquers will be investigated as to their suitability for ORION. Keywords: Satellite attitude control systems, Gravity gradient, Theses.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 01, 1989
Accession Number
ADA207845

Entities

People

  • Frank W. Boyd

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Altitude
  • Angular Momentum
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Attitude Control Systems
  • Control Systems
  • Coordinate Systems
  • Equations
  • Equations Of Motion
  • Equatorial Orbits
  • Euler Angles
  • Magnetic Fields
  • Magnetic Moments
  • Momentum
  • Solar Radiation
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft
  • Vehicles

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Inertial Navigation Systems.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris
  • Space - Spacecraft Maneuvers