Influence of Stored Angular Momentum on the Modal Characteristics of Spacecraft With Flexible Appendages

Abstract

The attitude dynamics and control of flexible spacecraft are more clearly understood if the natural frequencies of oscillation are known for these spacecraft. The influence of stored angular momentum hs (for example, dual-spin vehicles, or vehicles with a momentum wheel) on these natural frequencies is determined in terms of the appendage characteristics, the inertia distribution, and hs. Primary emphasis is placed on general qualitative results. The discussion is illustrated with an example.