空间目标控制与信息处理技术的研究内容和应用现状

星际空间目标识别、探测以及开发利用，将是21世纪人类关注的热点领域，也是进一步推动科学技术不断发展的动力之一。本文讨论了空间目标控制与信息处理技术研究的主要内容以及涉及的基础理论；重点介绍了与空间目标控制与制导以及信息处理密切相关的估计方法的发展现状以及存在的问题；最后，简单分析了未来空间活动将面临的课题和有关方法的发展方向。     

近距-1协议在星间测距中的应用

针对近距航天器测距的需要,将CCSDS(空间数据系统咨询委员会)近距-1协议的定时业务与微波双向单程测距法相结合进行测距。该法以直序扩频技术来获得高精度传输帧ASM(附属同步标识)最后1位下降沿的时刻,并以时间码形式,通过帧数据域在测距星之间相互对传,综合考虑协议给出的信号物理特性,对所给出的方法进行了误差分析。分析表明,航天器之间距离不远,相对速度不大时,该法具有较高精度,且与数据通信共用1套设备,降低了成本。     

基于SCPS协议的天地一体化网络加密设计

分析未来空间科学试验、载人航天工程等对空间通信信息化加密需求,提出天地一体化网络的典型应用模式。针对这种模式提出基于SCPS-SP(空间通信协议规范-安全协议)和IPSec(互联网安全)协议的天地一体化信息加密设计。这种一体化的设计可以有效解决地面网络和空间子网信息的整体加密、完整性验证和认证问题。     

卫星星座的空域覆盖性能计算模型

空域覆盖性能计算是星座覆盖性能分析的重要组成部分。分析了星座的关注区域,参考美国的SMTS系统,归纳了空域覆盖性能的主要影响因素;提出了Walker—delta星座最小覆盖重复周期的简化计算,以及基于最小覆盖重复周期内的经纬度覆盖等效性,这两方面可为空域覆盖性能计算中的仿真时间界定和空间采点提供依据;最后举例详细阐明了星座空域覆盖性能的基本特征．并基于此得出星座空域覆盖性能的评价角度,以此作为星座空域覆盖特性的本质表现。     

Nonlinear filtering methods for spacecraft navigation based on differential algebra

The paper investigates the problem of nonlinear filtering applied to spacecraft navigation. Differential algebraic (DA) techniques are proposed as a valuable tool to implement the higher-order numerical and analytic extended Kalman filters. Working in the DA framework allows us to consistently reduce the required computational effort without losing accuracy. The performance of the proposed filters is assessed on different orbit determination problems with realistic orbit uncertainties. The case of nonlinear measurements is also considered. Numerical simulations show the good performance of the filter in case of both complex dynamics and highly nonlinear measurement problems.     

Debris dispersion effect in N-shape configuration

Spacecraft shields play an important role in shielding against the impact of space debris. Increasing the dispersion degree of the debris produced by the impact of the space debris on the bumper of configuration is able to lower the concentration of debris impacting on the rear plate and thus to reduce the risk of debris perforating the rear plate. In order to improve the dispersion degree, the N-shape configuration is proposed and studied by hypervelocity impact test with the velocity of 4.80 km/s and numerical simulation with the velocities ranging from 3.0 km/s to 7.0 km/s. As a comparison, the distribution of debris impacting on the rear plate is also investigated for the parallel triple-wall configuration with the same areal density. It is found that this degree is increased in the N-shape configuration due to the oblique plate, and therefore the risk of debris perforating the rear plate is reduced compared to the case of parallel triple-wall configuration.     

Optical orbital debris spotter

The number of man-made debris objects orbiting the Earth, or orbital debris, is alarmingly increasing, resulting in the increased probability of degradation, damage, or destruction of operating spacecraft. In part, small objects (<10 cm) in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) are of concern because they are abundant and difficult to track or even to detect on a routine basis. Due to the increasing debris population it is reasonable to assume that improved capabilities for on-orbit damage attribution, in addition to increased capabilities to detect and track small objects are needed. Here we present a sensor concept to detect small debris with sizes between approximately 1.0 and 0.01 cm in the vicinity of a host spacecraft for near real time damage attribution and characterization of dense debris fields and potentially to provide additional data to existing debris models.     

The new debate on the working methods of the UNCOPUOS Legal Subcommittee

The 2014 session of the Legal Subcommittee (LSC) of the United Nations Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNCOPUOS) saw a particularly extensive and thorough debate on the working methods of this forum, which has the status of the highest body in space law making. By discussing the working methods it also became apparent how delegations actually regard the LSC and what expectations they have from it. In a time of considerable changes in space activities and space diplomacy alike, it was only a matter of time that such a comprehensive discussion arose. And while it did not immediately lead to decisions, it provided numerous signals for the future of the LSC.     

Analysis and experiments for delay compensation in attitude control of flexible spacecraft

Space vehicles are often characterized by highly flexible appendages, with low natural frequencies which can generate coupling phenomena during orbital maneuvering. The stability and delay margins of the controlled system are deeply affected by the presence of bodies with different elastic properties, assembled to form a complex multibody system. As a consequence, unstable behavior can arise. In this paper the problem is first faced from a numerical point of view, developing accurate multibody mathematical models, as well as relevant navigation and control algorithms. One of the main causes of instability is identified with the unavoidable presence of time delays in the GNC loop. A strategy to compensate for these delays is elaborated and tested using the simulation tool, and finally validated by means of a free floating platform, replicating the flexible spacecraft attitude dynamics (single axis rotation). The platform is equipped with thrusters commanded according to the on–off modulation of the Linear Quadratic Regulator (LQR) control law. The LQR is based on the estimate of the full state vector, i.e. including both rigid – attitude – and elastic variables, that is possible thanks to the on line measurement of the flexible displacements, realized by processing the images acquired by a dedicated camera. The accurate mathematical model of the system and the rigid and elastic measurements enable a prediction of the state, so that the control is evaluated taking the predicted state relevant to a delayed time into account. Both the simulations and the experimental campaign demonstrate that by compensating in this way the time delay, the instability is eliminated, and the maneuver is performed accurately.     

Analytical and semi-analytical inverse kinematics of SSRMS-type manipulators with single joint locked failure

Redundant space manipulators, including Space Station Remote Manipulator System (SSRMS), Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator (SPDM) and European Robotic Arm (ERA), have been playing important roles in the construction and maintenance of International Space Station (ISS). They all have 7 revolute joints arranged in similar configurations, and are referred to as SSRMS-type manipulators.