Systems, apparatuses, methods, and software are described herein that provide enhanced logistical control over spacecraft. This logistical control can include attitude adjustment and desaturation of reaction wheels. In one example, a method of operating a spacecraft includes providing propellant in two or more propellant tanks for use by at least a thruster of the spacecraft. During application of a force on the spacecraft, the method includes transferring propellant from at least a first propellant tank to at least a second propellant tank to alter a center of mass of the spacecraft.
Spacecraft Mass Shifting With Propellant Tank Systems
2020-12-03
Patent
Electronic Resource
English
IPC: | B64G Raumfahrt , COSMONAUTICS |