First Reaction Wheel Qualified for Space in Türkiye

Abstract

Reaction Wheels are the equipment used to control the position and attitude of satellites precisely. They must operate almost without any interruption during the lifetime of the satellite. The Reaction Wheel, developed by TUBİTAK UZAY for IMECE satellite, provides satisfying performance in terms of momentum storage, torque, and wheel speed measurement, as well as zero-crossing and micro-vibration features to gain space heritage. This paper comprehensively studies the reaction wheel, including its components, environmental tests, applied loads, balance, and micro-vibration activities. The subject emphasizes the technical complexities involved with the design and execution of such a complex electro-mechanical system and the key factors and challenges encountered during its development. Furthermore, this study thoroughly summarizes the testing methods used to verify the reaction wheel's performance under various environmental conditions and varying loads.

Keywords

• reaction wheel
• electric motor control
• electric motor drive
• random load profile
• balance
• micro-vibration