Abstract:

In view of on-orbit capturing for free-tumbling uncooperative targets, to de-tumble the target using plume impingement force will improve the safety and feasibility of capture mission. The pointing strategy is required under the circumstance that the solar array norm is inclined from spin axis. Pointing strategy design is blank still. The optimization of pointing strategy will benefit the accuracy and efficiency of the system. A parametric plume impingement model was built, then a working condition was proposed based on typical targets, and the sensitivity of de-tumbling torque to relative position and attitude was given. Finally, by designing the target function, the model of pointing strategy was built. Simulations show that the pointing strategy is suitable for situations that solar array slopes at an angle with desired torque, and the accuracy is improved to 10 degrees with a relatively large torque. The method is feasible for spin target with a rotation of solar panel relates to spin axis and the target with nutation motion, and the research will support service vehicle’s control system design.

Key words:

"> on-orbit de-tumbling, pointing strategy, plume impingement, contactless force