Web-based tools spacecraft attitude dynamics and control simulation

The web-based application presented in this paper provides attitude dynamics and control simulation tools utilizing the advantages of the World Wide Web. A user can access the program from the office, classroom, home, or local Internet cafe without the hassle of single-machine licenses. The program features an easy-to-use interface, allowing the user to quickly alter spacecraft characteristics, orbit parameters, and initial conditions. Different levels of complexity, ranging from rigid-body motion to active control of a spacecraft are available to the user. A number of output options are also available to the user, ranging from simple graphs to three-dimensional movies.