Satellite Attitude Control Utilizing The Earth S Magnetic Field

Satellite Attitude Control Utilizing the Earth's Magnetic Field

The torque developed by the interaction of current-carrying coils with the earth's magnetic field can be used as a means of attitude control. The degree to which the attitude of a vehicle can be maintained utilizing this torque depends on the fluctuations of the magnetic field at the satellite as the satellite orbits about the earth. Due to the nature of the torque developed only two vehicle axes can be c ntinuously controlled simultaneously. With the principle described, either a two- or three-coil system can be used to control vehicle attitude about two axes. Intermittent control about three axes can be obtained. (Author).

NASA Technical Note

Torques and Attitude Sensing in Earth Satellites

Applied Mathematics and Mechanics, Volume 7: Torques and Attitude Sensing in Earth Satellites focuses on the possible torques that can affect the angular momentum of an Earth satellite. This book provides an understanding of the environment in which a satellite operates. Organized into 16 chapters, this volume starts with an overview of the application of force-free motion to space programs. This text then discusses the torque effects of a gravitational field, particularly with its gradient. Other chapters consider a particular method of gravity-gradient stabilization that utilizes a passive device to damp librations and thereby attain a vertical orientation. This book discusses as well the effects of the geomagnetic field on the angular motion of a satellite. The reader is also introduced to the method of magnetic attitude control employed in the Tiros satellite. The final chapter deals with the problem of horizon sensing, which is important for satellites requiring Earth stabilization. Astrophysicists will find this book useful.