Relative Orbit Control Algorithms and Scenarios for the Inertial Alignment Hold Demonstration Mission by CubeSat Formation Flying

Abstract

CANYVAL-C is a formation-flying mission that demonstrates a coronagraph utilizing two CubeSats. The coronagraph is a space telescope that blocks sunlight to examine the overcast regions around the sun. It is composed of optical and occult segments. Two spacecraft were aligned with respect to an inertial system to configure a virtual telescope using inertial alignment hold technology. The relative orbit control scenario for this mission involves rendezvous, differential air drag control, and inertial alignment holding. Orbit control algorithms and simple strategies that can be automatically constructed onboard have also been developed. For each maneuver, the control performance under the errors from navigation, attitude determination and control, and propulsion systems were assessed via Monte Carlo simulation, taking into account the hardware specifications and operations. In addition to the algorithm and strategy of this mission, the relative orbit control scenario was evaluated for its practicability using Monte Carlo simulations. The feasibility of this mission is ensured by a statistical analysis of the prospect of its success during its operation.

Keywords

• inertial alignment hold
• rendezvous
• differential air drag control
• relative orbit control algorithm
• relative orbit control scenario
• CubeSat