Time Optimal Magnetic Attitude Control Using a Variational Approach

Conventional magnetic attitude control methodologies require several orbital periods to accomplish the required attitude maneuvers due to existence of an uncontrollable axis, namely the local Earth’s magnetic field vector. In this research the attitude slew maneuver using magnetic torquers is formulated as a time optimal problem and solved through calculus of variations. The results are compared with those of other existing practical control methods.