Aerodynamic coordinated control of attitude and relative position of a formation of microsatellites.

Satellites in very low Earth orbits can leverage the aerodynamics forces for control purposes. Three-axis attitude control can be achieved by adjusting the orientation of aerodynamic surfaces, benefiting from both drag and lift forces. However, complete control over the orbital motion of a satellite is unattainable using aerodynamic forces alone, as positive thrust cannot be generated. Nonetheless, this limitation does not apply when focusing on the control of a satellite formation. By properly modulating the orientation of panels, positive and negative relative forces can be generated. This paper shows that even in a formation of simple microsatellites, it is possible to achieve formation and attitude simultaneous control by using no other actuators than the aerodynamics surfaces. • Very Low Earth orbits are appealing but the large atmospheric density can be a problem. • The atmospheric forces can be used for control purposes. • Formation control and attitude control can be individually realized by using aerodynamic forces. • A GNC architecture is implemented to realized both goals with the same aerodynamic actuators. • Performance in keeping or acquiring a desired state (attitude and relative position) is promising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]