Multi-axis Attitude Control and Energy Storage on Small Satellites

To fully-enable cutting edge science through small satellites (smallsat), this technology will reduce the overall size and net power consumption of conventional three-axis attitude control systems.

A CubeSat is a volume-limited, standardized smallsat form factor (typ. 1-6U, where 1U = 10 cm3) that occasionally needs to be equipped with an active attitude control system, e.g. reaction wheels needed for high-resolution science imaging, orbit maintenance, and maximum irradiance on solar cells. The proposed architecture provides improved performance over traditional wheels and satisfies the push for component miniaturization, increased pointing accuracy, and power efficiency on CubeSats.