Spacecraft Formation Flying

Chapter 11

Implementation of $\mathrm{\&\#x0394;}v$ Commands

Publisher Summary

This chapter discusses the impact of ∆v implementation error on the performance of spacecraft formation flying, rendezvous, and docking. It also explores how accelerometers can be used to improve performance by providing accurate measurements of the applied ∆v. As sensing technology and the ability to design optimal trajectories for formations of spacecraft continue to improve, the need for control systems that accurately implement ∆v is becoming more pronounced. The chapter develops a model of ∆v implementation error and uses it to investigate the dangers of poor thruster performance. ...