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Relative Motion Dynamics with Arbitrary Perturbations in the Local-Vertical Local-Horizon Reference Frame

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Abstract

Accurate models for spacecraft relative dynamics are essential to the design of high-precision control and long-term estimation. In the literature, numerous analytical models have been proposed that describe, with different degrees of accuracy, the relative dynamics in presence of specific perturbations. These models however may be limited for future missions, like long-baseline formation flying, that will require analytical formulations capable of considering the influence of different perturbations at the same time, in order to meet the high-demanding mission requirements. The aim of this Note is to provide a general and flexible framework for the inclusion of arbitrary perturbations into the equations of relative motion. The framework decouples the perturbations influence from the Keplerian component of the motion, so that designers can include the perturbations of interest according to the mission scenario. In the future, the proposed framework might be used by autonomous spacecraft for real-time reconfiguration of the guidance system in response to a changed operating scenario. The inclusion of arbitrary zonal harmonics perturbations and atmospheric drag into our framework is discussed.

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  1. Giovanni Franzini

    Present address: United Technologies Research Centre Ireland, 2nd Floor, Penrose Wharf Business Centre, Penrose Quay, Cork City, T23 XN53, Ireland

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Information Engineering, University of Pisa, Largo Lucio Lazzarino 1, 56122, Pisa, Italy

    Giovanni Franzini & Mario Innocenti

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  1. Giovanni Franzini
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  2. Mario Innocenti
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Correspondence to Giovanni Franzini.

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The work presented herein was carried out when G. Franzini was with University of Pisa, Department of Information Engineering.

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Franzini, G., Innocenti, M. Relative Motion Dynamics with Arbitrary Perturbations in the Local-Vertical Local-Horizon Reference Frame. J Astronaut Sci 67, 98–112 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40295-019-00185-0

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