Net Angular Momentum of Satellite with Reaction Wheel

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the net angular momentum of a satellite equipped with a reaction wheel, specifically in the context of its attitude dynamics. Two competing equations for calculating the net angular momentum (H) are presented, involving the inertia tensors of both the satellite and the reaction wheel, along with their respective masses and displacements from the center of mass (COM). The first equation incorporates the angular velocities of both the satellite and the reaction wheel, while the second equation separates the terms for the reaction wheel's angular momentum. A definitive derivation or authoritative source is sought to clarify the correct formulation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of angular momentum in rigid body dynamics
  • Familiarity with inertia tensors and their calculations
  • Knowledge of the parallel axis theorem
  • Basic principles of satellite attitude control systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation of angular momentum equations in satellite dynamics
  • Study the parallel axis theorem and its applications in inertia tensor calculations
  • Explore the dynamics of reaction wheels and their impact on satellite attitude control
  • Examine case studies or simulations involving momentum wheels in spacecraft
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, satellite dynamics researchers, and students studying spacecraft attitude control systems will benefit from this discussion.

swagbowl
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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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Sorry, reaction wheel should really be replace by momentum wheel as it will have an angular velocity during flight
 

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