Autonomously Blended Passive and Active Control for a CubeSat-Class Science Mission

One challenge facing CubeSat-class spacecraft undertaking science operations is that the volume constraints associated with this form factor impose strict limitations on control authority. In particular, it can be difficult to complete traditional reorientation maneuvers in a timely manner due to the comparatively low saturation limits of these actuators. This paper demonstrates the use of a new approach to spacecraft attitude control known as Autonomously Blended Passive and Active (ABPA) control. This control strategy treats the space environment as an asset and seeks to simultaneously regulate both passive and active attitude control elements in flight in accordance with a set of desired guidance commands. Applied to a six-unit (6U) CubeSat performing a reorientation maneuver typical of scientific spacecraft, a controller designed using techniques in autonomous blending of active and passive controls is demonstrated through simulation to offer significant thruster propellant savings without sacrificing time domain performance when compared to traditional control methods.