Dynamic modeling and control strategy for tethered satellite systems in orbital debris management

Abstract

The increasing accumulation of space debris threatens the integrity and functionality of satellites and complicates orbital operations. This paper constructs an advanced rigid-flexible coupling dynamic model for tethered satellite systems, tailored to enhance space debris management. Utilizing the nodal position finite element method, the model significantly improves the precision of simulating tether dynamics and captures the complex interactions involving satellite and debris attitude dynamics. This advancement allows for detailed examination of potential tether entanglements and provides crucial data for optimizing deorbiting processes. To overcome the limitations of conventional control techniques, a robust adaptive sliding mode control strategy is developed. This approach is specifically designed to manage the unpredictable conditions of the low-Earth orbit and ensure precise satellite attitude control, critical for successful debris removal. Validated through extensive numerical simulations, our model and control strategy demonstrate substantial improvements in operational reliability and safety, significantly enhancing the success rate of deorbiting missions.