An Attitude Control and Station Keeping System for the Synchronous Meteorological Satellite (SMS)

An attitude control and station keeping system is presented for a synchronous meteorological satellite. The 500 lb satellite was designed to be placed in a circular, synchronous, equatorial orbit above 90 deg W longitude by the Atlas-Agena boost vehicle, to provide a stable platform for obtaining high resolution, earth cloud pictures with precision image orthicon and vidicon cameras. This paper discusses the requirements placed on the system and the effects of various disturbances on its performance. Data are given with respect to implementation of controls to correct orbital deviations and to maintain flight orientation for a one year mission.