Optimization of Orientations of Spacecraft Reaction Wheels

A report presents a method of optimizing the orientations of three reaction wheels used to regulate the angular momentum of a spacecraft. The method yields an orientation matrix that minimizes mass, torque, and power demand of the reaction wheels while maximizing the allowable duration between successive angular-momentum dumps. Each reaction wheel is parameterized with its own unit vector, and a quadratic cost function is defined based on requirements for torque, storage of angular momentum, and power demand. Because management of angular momentum is a major issue in designing and operating an orbiting spacecraft, an angular-momentum-management strategy is parameterized and included as part of the overall optimization process. The report describes several case studies, including one of a spacecraft proposed to be placed in orbit around Europa (the fourth largest moon of Jupiter).