Algorithms for the transport spacecraft descending stage lateral motion control

This report deals with the problems of synthesizing algorithms for controlling the attitude manoeuver of a transport spacecraft aimed at injecting the spacecraft into a closed terminal domain of “heading-range” phase coordinates which makes it possible to descend to the landing aerodrome region in accordance with a spiral trajectory tracking pattern. The descent trajectory is controlled by changing the roll angle. The principal distinguishing feature of the suggested method of transport spacecraft lateral motion control resides in guiding the spacecraft to a terminal curve and in providing an automatic transfer from roll control to interacting control of roll angle and angle of attack. The performance of the control algorithm under transient conditions are considered in detail.Algorithms controlling the longitudinal range by varing the magnitude of the roll angle and lateral range by selecting the respective sign of the roll control angle are thereafter synthesized separately. The major problem in designing the angular motion control system of transport spacecraft is the development of a high-rate roll axis turn control algorithm. To ensure high accuracy of lateral manoeuvering of the spacecraft it is expedient to accomplish the spacecraft reorientation in roll in a minimum time. It is therewith necessary to take into account with the sideslip angle limitation associated with the need of complying the design conditions of the spacecraft flowaround and with the spacecraft skin selected temperature conditions. It is expected that the total side slip angle is acceptable for measurement. Within the greater portion of the descent trajectory constant-thrust jet-reaction control engines are employed as actuators. Therefore, together with the high speed of response developed control algorithm provides an adequate efficiency of the system from the viewpoint of fuel consumption. The possibilities offered by the suggested algorithms controlling the lateral motions of the center of masses and around the center of masses during the descent stage and in the course of landing approach manoeuvering are illustrated by an example considering a hypothetical transport spacecraft featuring variable aerodynamics and a low frequency of natural oscillations of the angular motion loop. The suggested algorithms make it possible to fully employ the transport spacecraft maneuverability and to meet the terminal heading and velocity requirements within a wide class of disturbances.