Net Angular Momentum of Satellite with Reaction Wheel

In summary, there is a debate about the equation for the net angular momentum of a satellite with a reaction wheel in one plane. The system is considered to be the combination of the satellite and the reaction wheel, with the net angular momentum denoted as H. The inertia tensors and relative velocities of both the satellite and reaction wheel are taken into account. There are differing beliefs about the correct equation for H, with one group believing it to be [(JSat + mSatdSat2)ωSat] + [(JRW + mRWdRW2)(ωSat+ωRW/Sat)] and the other believing it to be [(JSat+mSatdSat2)ωSat] + [JRWωRW/Sat+mRW
  • #1
swagbowl
2
0
I am modelling the attitude dynamics of a satellite. The satellite has a reaction wheel in 1 plane to help control the attitude. There is significant debate about the equation for the net angular momentum of the satellite and what inertia tensors should be used regarding parallel axis theorems and relative velocities.

For simplicity consider the satellite in only the plane that contains the reaction wheel (e.g. the plane in which the wheel rotates). The system is considered to be the combination of the satellite (excluding the reaction wheel) and the reaction wheel.

The net angular momentum of the system is H.

The inertia tensor of the satellite (excluding the reaction wheel) about its principle axis is JSat.
The mass of the satellite is mSat.
The displacement of the satellite's COM to the system's COM is dSat.
The angular velocity of the satellite in inertial space is ωSat.

The inertia tensor of the reaction wheel about its principle axis is JRW.
The mass of the reaction wheel is mRW.
The displacement of the reaction wheel's COM to the system's COM is dRW.
The angular velocity of the wheel with respect to the satellite is ωRW//Sat.

Some believe that the net angular momentum of the system is:
H = [(JSat + mSatdSat2Sat] + [(JRW + mRWdRW2)(ωSatRW/Sat)]

While others believe that the net angular momentum of the system is:
H = [(JSat+mSatdSat2Sat] + [JRWωRW/Sat+mRWdRW2ωSat]

Can anyone shed some light on the correct answer? A first principles derivation or supporting source would be beneficial to my case of proving the correct answer. As my head will be on the chopping block if its wrong I would like some piece of mind...
 
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  • #2
Sorry, reaction wheel should really be replace by momentum wheel as it will have an angular velocity during flight
 

1. What is net angular momentum of a satellite?

The net angular momentum of a satellite refers to the total amount of rotational motion that the satellite possesses in space. It is a combination of the satellite's own angular momentum and the angular momentum generated by any external forces acting on the satellite, such as reaction wheels.

2. How is net angular momentum of a satellite calculated?

The net angular momentum of a satellite can be calculated by multiplying the satellite's moment of inertia (a measure of its rotational mass) by its angular velocity (the rate at which it rotates). This calculation takes into account any external torques acting on the satellite, such as those generated by reaction wheels.

3. What is a reaction wheel?

A reaction wheel is a device used to control the orientation and angular momentum of a satellite. It consists of a spinning wheel mounted on a motor, which can be controlled to change the rotation of the satellite. By spinning the wheel in one direction, the satellite will rotate in the opposite direction, allowing for precise control of its orientation and angular momentum.

4. How does a reaction wheel affect the net angular momentum of a satellite?

A reaction wheel can either increase or decrease the net angular momentum of a satellite, depending on how it is used. By spinning the wheel in one direction, the satellite's angular momentum will increase in the opposite direction. Conversely, by spinning the wheel in the opposite direction, the satellite's angular momentum will decrease in the same direction.

5. What are the main advantages of using a reaction wheel in satellite control?

Using a reaction wheel allows for precise and efficient control of a satellite's orientation and angular momentum. It can also help to conserve fuel, as reaction wheels do not require any propellant to operate. Additionally, reaction wheels are lightweight and compact, making them a popular choice for satellite systems.

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