Extending Attitude Estimation Capability for Agile Precision Target Tracking NanoSats: Hardware Characterisation, Configuration Selection, and Gyro-Stellar based Unscented Calibration Filter Synthesis

Though NanoSats are becoming increasingly capable of featuring active payloads, and acquiring inertial data at arcsec level precision; the payload operational duty-cycle largely remains limited by its data downlink capabilities. NanoSat laser communication terminal (LCT) promises 1 Gbps data downlink capabilities. However, LEO to ground free...

Optimal scheduling for agile Earth observation satellites

The past decade has seen a continuous increase of Earth observation missions, since they are regarded as an important tool to address global problems such as climate change or disaster mitigation. A commercial trend exists now towards higher resolution imagery, which drives the use of agile satellites. Nevertheless, a disadvantage of agile...

Model-based FDI for Agile Spacecraft with Multiple Actuators Working Simultaneously

Current and future space missions require agile and reliable spacecraft capable of trailing and keeping the required attitude. Most of the agile spacecraft missions are near-Earth based but some are placed far away from Earth and its influence. One example of such missions is the Athena mission, which requires the spacecraft to perform fast and...