Maximization of Solar Power Generation for a Spacecraft Controlled by a Single Rotor Based on Monte Carlo Economic Model Predictive Control

Abstract

In this study, assuming a case that two of the three reaction wheels mounted on the spacecraft failed, we examined a method of controlling the attitude with the remaining one reaction wheel. Since what can be done with one reaction wheel is limited, we propose an attitude control method for maximizing the amount of solar power generation using Monte Carlo economic model predictive control, and validated the effectiveness of the method by simulation. Extensive simulations were conducted to verify whether the proposed method is effective for various initial conditions, and it was confirmed that the power generation increased in most cases. Some examples of how the proposed control method behaved are shown and discussed.