Precise Attitude Stabilization of a Large Orbiting Telescope Coupled to a Crew Compartment

Computer simulation results are presented for the planar equations of motion of an attitude-stabilized orbiting telescope passively coupled to a manned service module. This coupling is provided through a set of soft springs and a two-axis gimbal aligned with the telescope center of mass. Principal nonlinearities in the suspension system and the telescope control system are included. The simulation indicates preliminary nary feasibility of this operational mode.