Abstract:

A new control method is described using atmospheric drag. It was based on the traditional control method of  satellite formation flying. Besides, the system configuration and control law are given. With drag panels, fuel is no longer a limitation to the satellite service life. This method is useful both in attitude control and formation control problems. It can reduce system complexity and enhance function density, and therefore has a good application prospect. Simulation results show that the method is effective in terms of the expected control efficiency.

Key words: atmospheric drag, satellite formation, attitude control, formation control