Satellite Formation Control Using the Approximating Sequence Riccati Equations

Abstract

In this study we develop a reliable algorithm to control the satellite formation using the Approximating Sequence
of Riccati Equations(ASRE) minimizing the fuel consumption and the deviation of the orbit from the nominal orbit.
The nonlinear Clohessy -Wiltshire(CW) equations of motions are used to describe the motion of the satellite formation
about a virtual reference position maintained at the formation center. The nonlinear dynamics of the system will be
factorized in such a way that the new factorized system is accessible. The problem is tackled using the Approximating
Sequence Riccati Equations(ASRE) method. The technique is based on Linear Quadratic Regulator(LQR) with fixed
terminal state, which guarantees closed loop solution.