Dynamic Simulation of Small Satellite Hybrid Attitude Control Technology

Small satellites are a budding technology that creates opportunities to gather data from a low earth orbit in a cost effective and efficient way, while also creating new opportunities for innovation. One such opportunity is the development of advanced attitude control methods, ranging from active to passive control. Active control is achieved through the use of PCB established magnetorquers, while passive control is established with a tethered mass extended from the small satellite. This paper outlines a numerical simulation that demonstrates control system dynamics aiding in development and mission planning.