Integrated Control Of Satellite Payloads

The Stanford Satellite Systems Development Laboratory (SSDL) is currently investigating advanced satellite control technologies aimed at improved spacecraft system operations. One technique involves a unique real-time payload control strategy for satellites operating within a crosslinked constellation. This strategy effectively merges payload scheduling, traditionally considered a high level planning problem, with low level actuator control. The developed method utilizes attractive artificial potential fields of varying strength to exert 'planning' forces on the payload. As the payload nears a particular goal, it is critically damped to that specific position. This approach has been simulated for the simple repositioning of a mechanically actuated space telescope. Applied to constellation operations, this strategy provides the basis for simple, efficient, and robust satellite cooperation in dynamic environments. This paper describes the strategy under consideration and discusses preliminary plans for its flight testing through the use of a small constellation of Satellite Quick Research Testbed (SQUIRT) micro satellites.