This paper addresses the dynamic characteristics of a momentum biased spacecraft (Magsat) which was placed in an elliptic, sun synchronous, low earth orbit. It discusses various dynamic phenomena observed, develops models for their plausible explanation, and suggests techniques for preventing or minimizing adverse phenomena. An aerodynamic coefficient model which accounts for atmospheric superrotation is proposed. This model is used to conduct analysis and simulations, the results of which are shown to be compatible with data taken by Magsat. A control philosophy is developed, and analytic expressions for the long term motion of the momentum biased axis for special cases are derived.


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    Title :

    Dynamics and drift minimization of a momentum biased spacecraft in the lower atmosphere


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    Astrodynamics Specialist Conference ; 1981 ; Lake Tahoe, NV, US


    Publication date :

    1981-08-01


    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English