Satellite spin inversion using a single degree of freedom momentum storage device

摘要

A method and system are disclosed for inverting a satellite spinning about a first desired spin axis to spin about a second desired spin axis substantially antiparallel to the first desired spin axis. A tumbling motion is induced in the satellite so that a spin axis of the satellite oscillates between the first desired spin axis and the second desired spin axis. The tumbling motion is induced by sensing at least one component of the angular rate vector and controlling a single degree of freedom momentum storage device based upon the at least one component of the angular rate vector. The single degree of freedom momentum storage device has an orientation of variation substantially perpendicular to the desired spin axis. The single degree of freedom momentum storage device is controlled so that the first desired spin axis is made an intermediate inertia axis of an effective inertia matrix. A capture point is detected at which the angular rate vector is sufficiently close to the second desired spin axis to be recaptured. After detecting the capture point, the single degree of freedom momentum storage device is controlled so that the angular rate vector substantially aligns with the second desired spin axis.