Integrated Multi-Range Rendezvous Control System

PSS proposes an integrated multi-range rendezvous control system written in our ObjectAgent distributed software architecture. The control system will use different algorithms at different ranges from the rendezvous target. Rendezvous maneuvers are achieved using a Lambert planner with genetic algorithm optimization for large orbit changes and using a Simplex planner with path constraints for maneuvers at close range to the target. Orbit determination is achieved using a continuous discrete Kalman filter which uses different sensors depending on their availability. For relative sensing, these are: radar for long range; vision for intermediate and close range; intersatellite-link (ISL) when available. For absolute sensing, these are GPS and ground ranging. The vision system, a single camera system developed by PSS or a selected existing system, will provide relative attitude in addition to relative position at intermediate range. PSS has the capability to perform high-fidelity simulations using MultiSatSim, allowing this project to move quickly into software testing. ObjectAgent is an inherently modular software architecture, allowing the resulting control system to be easily adapted, even on-orbit.