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: Satellite Attitude Control System (SACS) pointing accuracy is dependent of its actuator and sensor performance and robustness, where the first design requirement can be associated with bandwidth while the second is related to the ability of SACS to keep performance in face of system parameters variation. One way to gain attitude control algorithms confidence is through the conjunction of computational methods and experimental design, which allows hardware and software interface test, besides decreasing the SACS design cost. As for maneuver pointing accuracy the reaction wheel (RW) is a key actuator, because its disturbance can influence the accuracy and stability of SACS. This paper studies how the dynamics and the control algorithm strategy of the reaction wheels with its respective DC motor can influence the performance and robustness of the SACS control in three axes. To do this one develops a 3D satellite simulator nonlinear model based on the State-Dependent Riccati Equation (SDRE) method taking into account the RW parameters.  One compares the performance and robustness of the SACS where the RW is commanded by the SDRE control law with algorithm based on current and speed feedback compensation. Simulations of the computational methods developed have shown that the RW with speed feedback compensation has improved the SACS performance and robustness.

modeling, simulation, numerical methods, algorithm