Attitude Dynamics and Control for the Task Scheduling of Agile Earth Observation Satellites

Abstract: This thesis deals with the scheduling problem for a constellation of Earth observation satellites, focusing on modelling the attitude dynamics to assess the tasking capabilities. A target selection algorithm is developed considering the time dependent manoeuvres between targets and the time-dependent value of the observed targets. Further, a closed-loop dynamics simulation is carried out to assess the agility of the 6U platform and verify the results of the algorithm. The work does not intend to present definitive numerical results, rather the goal is to develop a holistic framework that allows appraising the performance of a platform and the fulfilment of the mission objectives, aiming to maximise the collective value of the observed targets. Given the inputs in terms of platform, sensor, orbit and list of targets, this work serves to simulate the target selection and imaging at an arbitrary day and time for a chosen observation window.