experience and innovation

The Formation Flying module is new to the version 7 release of the Spacecraft Control Toolbox.

This software package was developed over the course of two SBIR contracts with NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. The scope of these contracts was to develop a reconfigurable, decentralized framework for autonomous guidance and control in large formations of spacecraft. The outcome of this work was a prototype design for a decentralized formation flying (DFF) control system. The DFF design document is available for download via the link below.

Formation flying is an essential capability for many future missions being planned at NASA, ESA and the DoD. However, it is still a new and developing technology. The Formation Flying Module provides a comprehensive and valuable set of tools for any organization embarking on such a mission. The collection of algorithms, simulations, and design tools offered in the Formation Flying Module is unparalleled in its depth and breadth.

The main features of the module are summarized below. For more detailed information on the capabilities of the software, download the User's Guide or contact us directly with questions.

Downloads

• Tech Brief
• User's Guide
• DFF Design Document
• "DFFSim" Demo
• Formation Flying Analysis Demo
• Online API

Click on the image below to see a screenshot from the demo:

Key Features

Tools for initializing, simulating, and visualizing spacecraft formations

Algorithms for decentralized guidance and control

Full support for both circular and eccentric orbits

Coordinate transformations between the inertial frame and several relative frames.

A variety of models for relative dynamics, including:

• Clohessy-Wiltshire (or Hill's) equations
• Lawden's equations
• Gauss' variational equations.

Formation design utilities, with a powerful GUI.

Decentralized optimal guidance routines.

Model Predictive Control (MPC) algorithms for optimal maneuver planning.

Collision monitoring and avoidance utilities.

Fully integrated simulation that includes:

• Decentralized guidance and control software
• Inertial frame state integration
• User-defined time-tagged command scripts
• Post-simulation analysis tools.