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Development And Validation Of Reentry Simulation Using Matlab, Robert E. Jameson Jr.
Development And Validation Of Reentry Simulation Using Matlab, Robert E. Jameson Jr.
Theses and Dissertations
This research effort develops a program using MATLAB to solve the equations of motion for atmospheric reentry and analyzes the validity of the program for use as a tool to expeditiously predict reentry profiles. The reentry vehicle is modeled as a point mass with constant aerodynamic properties as defined by the user. The equations of motion for reentry are based on the two-body problem. The atmosphere is modeled as a single layer exponentially decreasing in density. The MATLAB program has the ability to derive the initial trajectory conditions from the position and velocity relative to the rotating surface of the …
Development And Testing Of An Inflatable, Rigidizable Space Structure Experiment, Sarah K. Helms
Development And Testing Of An Inflatable, Rigidizable Space Structure Experiment, Sarah K. Helms
Theses and Dissertations
Many recent space technology concepts require large space structures such as solar arrays and large aperture antennas; however, tight constraints on payload mass and volume often preclude their launch. Employing inflatable, rigidizable structures can reduce mass and volume while providing sufficient packing flexibility and structural stiffness. AFIT has developed RIGEX to flight-test this type of structure. RIGEX will test the deployment and structural characteristics of three thermoplastic composite Sub-Tg tubes. Once launched on the Space Shuttle in 2007, the spaceflight results will be compared to lab data to validate on-orbit reliability and ground test methods. This paper documents three main …
Characterization And Ground Test Of An Inflatable Rigidizable Space Experiment, Steven N. Lindemuth
Characterization And Ground Test Of An Inflatable Rigidizable Space Experiment, Steven N. Lindemuth
Theses and Dissertations
As greater capability is demanded of space-based assets, their size and complexity are growing. Inflatable, rigidizable structures offer significant improvements in the areas of weight, size, and complexity over traditional mechanically deployed systems. These structures are not well understood and little testing of them has been done in the space environment. Widespread acceptance of these technologies will not be achieved without significant reduction in the risk of using inflatable, rigidizable structures in space. The goal of this experiment is to verify and validate ground testing of small tubular truss structures for use in space. This experiment builds on previous research …
Reorientations Of Flexible Spacecraft Using Momentum Exchange Devices, Kevin A. Ford
Reorientations Of Flexible Spacecraft Using Momentum Exchange Devices, Kevin A. Ford
Theses and Dissertations
We study rest-to-rest reorientations of flexible spacecraft using momentum exchange devices. A new and concise form of the equations of motion for a rigid body containing a cluster of gimbaled momentum wheels is developed using the Euler-Newton approach. Special restrictions of the gimbaled momentum wheel equations yield equations of motion for the momentum wheel cluster and the control moment gyroscope cluster. A mathematical model of a free spacecraft with Euler-Bernoulli appendages is developed. Using the assumed modes method, a complete set of equations is developed which describes the dynamics of a spacecraft with flexible appendages and gimbaled momentum wheels. Special …