Abstract:

The static configuration of five satellite formation in the geosynchronous orbit (GEO) under the gravity and electrostatic Coulomb force is analyzed. The collinear and planar configurations are discussed. The study is focused on the pyramid three-dimensional static configuration. The net charge of each satellite is calculated according to the charge condition and configuration conditions. Because satellites in geosynchronous orbit sufferboth gravitational force and electrostatic Coulomb force, as well as air resistance and other perturbations,the static configuration must be controlled in order to maintain the stability of the satellite formation in equilibrium point. The linear quadratic optimal control is used to sustain the stable five satellite 3-dimensional formation of the static configuration, and simulation is executed by using Matlab.

Key words: Coulomb forces, Formation flight, Linear quadratic optimal control, Virtual structure