An investigation of satellite maneuvering and orientation strategies using an air bearing table

[摘要] In this thesis, the maneuvering and orientation of an inspection/service satellite is investigated.This thesis will demonstrate a simplified satellite maneuver around anothersatellite (for docking purposes). This is illustrated with a cart on an air bearing table(frictionless environment) which simplifies the problem to two dimensions.A mathematical model of the system was designed and simulated (Matlab) for this maneuver.With the simulation, different strategies were considered to maneuver the cartin a circle around another object. The conclusion was made that approximating the circlewith segments would conserve propellant. This strategy was implemented on the airbearing table.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University