Optimal control of Spacecraft Docking System using integral LOR controller

Abstract

An innovative approach to Guidance and Control of Spacecraft Docking System is introduced. Rendezvous and docking or berthing (RVD/B) is a key operational technology, which is required for any mission involving more than one spacecrafts, which successively bring the active vehicle (chaser) into the vicinity of, and eventually into contact with, the passive vehicle (target). A translational exponential Guidance plan is proposed based on the relative range of chaser spacecraft with respect to target. Optimal control loops are developed and simulated using integral LQR strategy to control the relative translational motion between the spacecraft and the space station with minimized thrust profile.