Attitude Determination and Control System

To be able to take images of the Earth, an attitude determination and control system is required. It will point the camera towards the correct target for imaging and for communication. Furthermore it will point the camera away from the sun and point three of the satellites sides with the solar panels towards the sun to ensure a maximum power input.

To control the satellites attitude in orbit three coils are used, which are mounted on three of the satellites sides perpendicular on each other. These will generate magnetic fields, which interact with the Earth's magnetic field, and hereby change the attitude of the satellite.

To determine the satellites attitude two types of sensors are used. A magnetometer, build up with components from HONEYWELL, to provide information on the direction of the magnetic field of the Earth, and sun sensors. These sun sensors are basically planar photo diodes placed on each side of the satellite to measure the intensity of the incoming sunlight. The solar sensors and coils are shown on the figures below.




- Documentation -

By 02gr1030 (ACS):
  • Attitude Control Report (pdf)
    By 02gr1031 (ACS):
  • Attitude Determination Report (pdf)



    Solar System