Advanced Capstone Spacecraft Dynamics and Control Project from Coursera

This capstone course is the 3rd and final course of the specialization Advanced Spacecraft Dynamics and Control. It assumes you have completed the prior courses on "Attitude Control with Momentum Exchange Devices" and "Analytical Mechanics for Spacecraft Dynamics". This project course investigates the dynamics of a complex spacecraft system where there is a rigid hub onto which a hinged panel is attached. This simulates a spacecraft with a time varying geometry.

First, the three-dimensional kinematics of this system are explored. Analytical relationships of the body and panel position and velocity states are derived, and the center of mass properties of this system are explored.

Next, a simplified system is used to use Lagrange's equations of motion to predict the dynamical response. With these differential equations we are then able to apply attitude control torques and investigate the rotational response if the spacecraft hub has a spring-hinged panel attached. Two open-loop control torque solutions are investigated. The classical minimum time bang-bang control solution is applied first, illustrating how such a control can yield unwanted panel oscillations. Finally, a filtered version of the bang-bang control is applied to illustrated how the panel oscillations can be significantly reduced at the cost of a slightly longer nominal maneuver time.

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Syllabus

Introduction to the Capstone Project

Welcome to the capstone project of the course sequence on advanced spacecraft dynamics and control.

3D Spacecraft Hub-Panel System

In this lesson we study a spacecraft system that contains a rigid hub with a hinged solar panel. Here the hub and panel center of mass locations are free to move relative to the spacecraft system center of mass. Fundamental properties of the dynamical description are derived.

Planar Rotation Control using Bang-Bang and Filtered Control Solutions

In this module we develop the differential equations of motion of the hub-panel spacecraft system that is constrained to rotate about a single axis. Two different open-loop torque solutions are applied to reorient the spacecraft from rest to a new stationary attitude. The impact of filtering a classical bang-bang control solution is investigated by apply a first-order low-pass filter to the control input.

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Provides unique perspectives on spacecraft dynamics and control, enriching understanding of the subject

Emphasizes advanced topics in spacecraft dynamics and control, making it suitable for experienced learners

Builds upon foundational knowledge in spacecraft dynamics and control, strengthening understanding of complex systems

Involves practical applications of analytical mechanics and control theory, showcasing their real-world relevance

Employs mathematical modeling and simulation techniques, providing hands-on experience in spacecraft design and analysis

Requires prerequisites in spacecraft dynamics and control, ensuring learners have a solid foundation before enrolling

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Advanced Capstone Spacecraft Dynamics and Control Project with these activities:

Join a Study Group for Spacecraft Dynamics

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Engage with peers to discuss and reinforce course concepts.

Browse courses on Spacecraft Dynamics

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Find or create a study group with fellow students
Meet regularly to review material and solve problems
Participate in discussions and share insights

Practice Spacecraft Attitude Control Problems

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Sharpen problem-solving skills in spacecraft attitude control.

Browse courses on Spacecraft Attitude Control

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Solve practice problems on spacecraft attitude kinematics
Apply control techniques to stabilize spacecraft attitude
Analyze spacecraft attitude control system performance

Solve Dynamics Equations of Motion

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Reinforce understanding of the differential equations governing spacecraft motion.

Browse courses on Rigid Body Dynamics

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Derive equations of motion for a rigid spacecraft
Apply Lagrange's Equations to spacecraft systems
Solve practice problems on spacecraft attitude control

Three other activities

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Create a Presentation on Spacecraft Dynamics and Control

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Synthesize knowledge of spacecraft dynamics and control into a coherent presentation.

Browse courses on Spacecraft Dynamics

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Gather relevant information from course materials
Organize content into a logical flow
Create visual aids and supporting materials
Practice delivering the presentation

Write a Technical Report on Spacecraft Attitude Control

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Document understanding of spacecraft attitude control principles and their applications.

Browse courses on Spacecraft Attitude Control

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Conduct literature review on spacecraft attitude control techniques
Analyze and compare different control algorithms
Write a comprehensive technical report summarizing findings

Design a Spacecraft Attitude Control System

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Apply course concepts to design and simulate a spacecraft attitude control system.

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Define spacecraft requirements and mission objectives
Select appropriate actuators and sensors
Develop control algorithms and implement them in a simulation environment
Test and evaluate control system performance

Career center

Learners who complete Advanced Capstone Spacecraft Dynamics and Control Project will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Mechanical Controls Engineer

A Mechanical Controls Engineer designs and develops control systems for mechanical systems, such as spacecraft. They use their knowledge of dynamics and control theory to design systems that are stable, efficient, and precise. This course provides a strong foundation in the dynamics and control of spacecraft, which would be very helpful for a Mechanical Controls Engineer who wants to work on spacecraft control systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Controls Engineer

Spacecraft Systems Engineer

A Spacecraft Systems Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and testing of spacecraft. They work with a team of engineers and scientists to ensure that the spacecraft meets all mission requirements. This course provides a good overview of the dynamics and control of spacecraft, which would be helpful for a Spacecraft Systems Engineer who wants to understand how the spacecraft will behave in space.

See salaries and explore the career path for Spacecraft Systems Engineer

Aerospace Engineer

An Aerospace Engineer designs, develops, and tests aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace vehicles. They use their knowledge of aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and other engineering disciplines to design vehicles that are safe, efficient, and reliable. This course provides a good overview of the dynamics and control of spacecraft, which would be helpful for an Aerospace Engineer who wants to work on spacecraft design or control.

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Control Systems Engineer

A Control Systems Engineer designs, develops, and tests control systems for a variety of applications, including spacecraft, aircraft, and industrial machinery. They use their knowledge of control theory to design systems that are stable, efficient, and precise. This course provides a strong foundation in the dynamics and control of spacecraft, which would be very helpful for a Control Systems Engineer who wants to work on spacecraft control systems.

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Mechatronics Engineer

A Mechatronics Engineer designs, develops, and tests systems that combine mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. They use their knowledge of these disciplines to design systems that are efficient, reliable, and user-friendly. This course provides a good overview of the dynamics and control of spacecraft, which would be helpful for a Mechatronics Engineer who wants to work on spacecraft systems.

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Robotics Engineer

A Robotics Engineer designs, develops, and tests robots. They use their knowledge of mechanics, electronics, and computer science to design robots that are able to perform a variety of tasks, such as manufacturing, assembly, and exploration. This course provides a good overview of the dynamics and control of spacecraft, which would be helpful for a Robotics Engineer who wants to work on robots that operate in space.

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Systems Engineer

A Systems Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and testing of complex systems, such as spacecraft. They work with a team of engineers and scientists to ensure that the system meets all mission requirements. This course provides a good overview of the dynamics and control of spacecraft, which would be helpful for a Systems Engineer who wants to understand how the spacecraft will behave in space.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer

Simulation Engineer

A Simulation Engineer develops and uses computer models to simulate the behavior of complex systems, such as spacecraft. They use their knowledge of physics, mathematics, and computer science to create models that can accurately predict the behavior of the system in different scenarios. This course provides a good overview of the dynamics and control of spacecraft, which would be helpful for a Simulation Engineer who wants to develop models of spacecraft systems.

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Test Engineer

A Test Engineer develops and conducts tests to ensure that products meet all specifications. They use their knowledge of engineering principles and testing methods to design and execute tests that can identify any potential problems with the product. This course provides a good overview of the dynamics and control of spacecraft, which would be helpful for a Test Engineer who wants to test spacecraft systems.

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Quality Engineer

A Quality Engineer is responsible for ensuring that products meet all quality standards. They work with a team of engineers and scientists to develop and implement quality control procedures. This course provides a good overview of the dynamics and control of spacecraft, which would be helpful for a Quality Engineer who wants to understand how spacecraft systems are designed and tested.

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Project Manager

A Project Manager is responsible for planning, executing, and closing projects. They work with a team of engineers and scientists to ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required specifications. This course may be helpful for a Project Manager who wants to manage a spacecraft project.

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Technical Writer

A Technical Writer creates technical documentation, such as manuals, reports, and specifications. They use their knowledge of technical concepts and writing skills to create documents that are clear, concise, and accurate. This course may be helpful for a Technical Writer who wants to write about spacecraft systems.

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Marketing Manager

A Marketing Manager is responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns. They use their knowledge of marketing principles and market research to create campaigns that reach the target audience and achieve the desired results. This course may be helpful for a Marketing Manager who wants to market spacecraft systems.

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Business Analyst

A Business Analyst works with clients to understand their business needs and develop solutions to meet those needs. They use their knowledge of business processes and technology to develop solutions that are efficient, effective, and user-friendly. This course may be helpful for a Business Analyst who wants to work with clients in the aerospace industry.

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Sales Engineer

A Sales Engineer works with clients to identify and sell products and services. They use their knowledge of technical concepts and sales skills to help clients understand how products and services can meet their needs. This course may be helpful for a Sales Engineer who wants to sell spacecraft systems.

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Advanced Capstone Spacecraft Dynamics and Control Project

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