Fast capture algorithm of initial attitude for spacecraft using reaction wheels

Abstract

A fast capture algorithm of the initial attitude is proposed for the spacecraft using reaction wheels. This algorithm is composed of two steps. The first step deals with absorption of the initial angular momentum of the spacecraft into the reaction wheels and the second step a rest-to-reset large angle maneuver for sun tracking. A criterion of the initial attitude capture and a controller for the fast large angle maneuver method are presented under considering constraints of the reaction wheels. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has several advantages of the initial attitude capture and fast large angle maneuver. This algorithm can be applied to the near minimum time rotation control of the spacecraft.