EFFECTS OF SOLAR RADIATION PRESSURE AND AERODYNAMIC FORCES ON SATELLITE ATTITUDE DYNAMICS AND THEIR UTILIZATION FOR CONTROL: A SURVEY

Abstract

The environment, exerts an important influence on the performance of space systems. A brief review of most of the studies, presented over the past eighteen years, relating to the influence and the possible utilization of the solar radiation pressure and aerodynamic forces, with particular reference to attitude dynamics and control of Sateliles is presented here. The semi-passive stabilizers employing these forces show premise of long life, low power and economic systems, which though slower in response, compare well with the active controilers, It is felt that much more attention is necessary to the actual implementation of these ideas and devices some of which are quite ingenious and unique.