Simplified nonlinear control of attitude and momentum for space station using control moment gyroscopes

Nonlinear controllers are often used to control the attitude and momentum of the space station with nonlinear dynamics. However, these controllers are not easy to implement due to their complex structures and heavy calculation burden. Therefore, a simplified nonlinear attitude/momentum controller is designed according to the simplified nonlinear dynamics of the space station with large pitch angles. This controller need not calculate the torque equilibrium attitude(TEA) a priori, and can tune the regulation procedure conveniently. Furthermore, this controller can establish a proper tradeoff between station pointing and momentum management of control moment gyroscopes, while satisfying the specific mission requirements. Simulation results of a certain space station indicate that the controller presented above is feasible.