The Determination of Remaining Satellite Propellant Using Measured Moments of Inertia

<p>This research is designed to demonstrate that a change in satellite propellant can be determined using measured moments of inertia (MOI) from a satellite. Because satellites are currently incapable of being refueled in orbit it is important to have multiple methods to determine the remaining fuel onboard. This research can also support satellite operator selection of control-system gains to improve performance or recover the spacecraft from an undesirable orbit. To meet the research objectives new mathematical models of the Air Force Institute of Technology's Simulated Satellite (SimSat) were developed. These models were created using dynamic response analysis techniques on the reaction wheel and SimSat systems. The models were than validated against the existing SimSat hardware. Using a least-squares parameter estimation technique the model and hardware data were compared to determine the resulting change in measured MOI. Then using a calibrated baseline model telemetry data was compared to the model to determine the MOI of the unknown system. The research found it is possible to determine the change in satellite fuel from measured MOI. The research also found there are limits to this detection technique based on the accuracy of the mathematical model and the angle of the detection maneuver being performed.</p><p>This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore you will see the original copyright references library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world) and other notations in the work.</p><p>This work is in the public domain in the United States of America and possibly other nations. Within the United States you may freely copy and distribute this work as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.</p><p>As a reproduction of a historical artifact this work may contain missing or blurred pages poor pictures errant marks etc. Scholars believe and we concur that this work is important enough to be preserved reproduced and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.</p>