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Application Number 3: Using Tethers for Attitude ControlPast application of the gravity gradient concept to satellite attitude control produced attitude stabilities of from 1 to 10 degrees. The satellite members were rigigly interconnected and any motion in one part of the satellite would cause motion in all members. This experience has restricted gravity gradient stabilization to applications that need attitude stability no better than 1 degree. A gravity gradient technique that combines the flexible tether with an active control that will allow control stability much better than 1 degree is proposed. This could give gravity gradient stabilization much broader application. In fact, for a large structure like a space station, it may become the preferred method. Two possible ways of demonstrating the techniques using the Tethered Satellite System (TSS) tether to control the attitude of the shuttle are proposed. Then a possible space station tether configuration is shown that could be used to control the initial station. It is then shown how the technique can be extended to the control of space stations of virtually any size.
Document ID
19850012063
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Muller, R. M.
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
March 1, 1985
Publication Information
Publication: NASA. Marshall Space Flight Center Appl. of Tethers in Space, Vol. 2
Subject Category
Mechanical Engineering
Accession Number
85N20373
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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