Sangam: A Confluence of Knowledge Streams

The Lageos Satellite: A Comprehensive Spin Model and Analysis

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dc.contributor Arkady Kheyfets, Committee Chair
dc.contributor Ron Fulp, Committee Member
dc.contributor Larry Norris, Committee Member
dc.contributor Pierre Gremaud, Committee Member
dc.creator Williams, Scott Everett
dc.date 2010-04-02T19:17:03Z
dc.date 2010-04-02T19:17:03Z
dc.date 2002-12-19
dc.date.accessioned 2023-02-28T17:07:26Z
dc.date.available 2023-02-28T17:07:26Z
dc.identifier etd-12182002-042940
dc.identifier http://www.lib.ncsu.edu/resolver/1840.16/5643
dc.identifier.uri http://localhost:8080/xmlui/handle/CUHPOERS/265541
dc.description A thorough investigation into the theoretical modeling of the Laser-Ranged Geodynamics Satellite (Lageos I) spin state evolution is presented. Starting from an existing dynamical model, we analyze in detail each of the model's assumptions and explore possible enhancements. Additional concerns not considered by the original model are also scrutinized in a bottom-up approach. In particular, we re-evaluate the orbit propagation module, survey and investigate all possible space-environment effects, assess numerical implementation concerns, and perform a number of software feature modifications. In the process, a parameterized approach is adopted and corresponding non-linear optimization tools are integrated into the revamped model. The outcome is a comprehensive, open-source model of the Lageos I spin dynamics which exhibits a significant advance in predictive accuracy. A corollary of the effort is a broad survey of the important space environment effects on the attitude of passive satellites. In addition, a thorough analysis of the model results is presented along with an expanded discussion of the interesting discoveries we made. Particularly significant is the sensitivity of the spin state evolution to small changes in the principal moments of the satellite–an idea discounted by previous efforts that nevertheless can be analytically verified. A consequence of the effort is the immediate application to a number of ongoing research activities involving the Lageos I satellite. Of particular interest is the potential role of Lageos I in a proposed experiment to measure the general relativistic force known as gravitomagnetism. A precise understanding of the evolution of Lageos' spin dynamics is required so that correlated thermal effects may be properly accounted for in the evaluation of orbital motion. A related effort is the attempt to empirically measure the spin state based on optical glint data. This process must be seeded with a quality initial estimate of the spin axis orientation for proper evaluation of the data. The model we present has implications for both of these efforts.
dc.rights I hereby certify that, if appropriate, I have obtained and attached hereto a written permission statement from the owner(s) of each third party copyrighted matter to be included in my thesis, dissertation, or project report, allowing distribution as specified below. I certify that the version I submitted is the same as that approved by my advisory committee. I hereby grant to NC State University or its agents the non-exclusive license to archive and make accessible, under the conditions specified below, my thesis, dissertation, or project report in whole or in part in all forms of media, now or hereafter known. I retain all other ownership rights to the copyright of the thesis, dissertation or project report. I also retain the right to use in future works (such as articles or books) all or part of this thesis, dissertation, or project report.
dc.subject principal moments of inertia
dc.subject spacecraft torque
dc.subject thermoelastic
dc.subject coefficients of magnetization
dc.subject spinning conductor
dc.subject magnetic moment
dc.subject euler angles
dc.subject magnetic torque
dc.subject gravitational torque
dc.subject spin angular momentum
dc.subject IGRF
dc.subject GCC
dc.subject software development
dc.subject numerical integration
dc.subject parameter optimization
dc.title The Lageos Satellite: A Comprehensive Spin Model and Analysis


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