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Simulation of a 3U satellite with CMG and Sun Sensor for attitude determination

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Mirko

Project Timeline

Sep 2024 - Jan-2025

OVERVIEW

Designing and simulating a complete closed-loop ADCS for a 3U CubeSat in LEO to achieve stable Earth-pointing for optical observations.

HighlightS

  • Sensors & Actuators Architecture: Engineered the operational logic for Sun and Earth Horizon sensors, accurately modeling real-world constraints such as FOV limitations, signal discretization, structural misalignment errors, and eclipse blackouts.
  • Control Moment Gyroscope (CMG) Implementation: Integrated a 4-CMG pyramidal configuration to provide full three-axis control
  • Advanced Multi-Phase Control Logic: Designed and tuned dedicated control laws for distinct mission phases, transitioning seamlessly between them via an automated switch logic Detumbling and Slew Maneuver
  • Robust Earth-Pointing in Eclipse: Executed a PID control architecture utilizing an algebraic attitude determination method. Successfully maintained nadir pointing and proved the system's ability to recover attitude tracking immediately after sensor blackouts caused by orbital eclipses
  • Environmental & Statistical Stress Testing: Validated the ADCS robustness against accurately modeled environmental disturbances

SKILLS

MATLABSimulinkADCS Architecture Closed-Loop Control SystemsLyapunov StabilityPID Tuning

External Links

Project Report

ADDITIONAL CONTENTS

Problem Statement

The aim of the project is to design and model the attitude dynamics of a 3U CubeSat orbiting around the Earth. The purpose of the spacecraft is to achieve earth pointing by exploiting sensors and actuators installed onboard, in order to take pictures of the earth

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Mirko

Space Engineer | Propulsion Systems Specialist

I am an aspiring space engineer, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering and a Master’s degree in Space Engineering with a strong specialization in propulsion systems. My academic foundation combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on project experience in engine design, combustion analysis, and simulation. I excel in problem-solving and creative thinking, leveraging CAD tools, MATLAB, and advanced simulation software like EcosimPro. My passion for improving propulsion performance while reducing costs drives my work in both academic and startup environments.

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