In-flight performance validation of the TanDEM-X autonomous formation flying system
by Jean-Sébastien Ardaens; Ralph Kahle; Daniel Schulze
International Journal of Space Science and Engineering (IJSPACESE), Vol. 2, No. 2, 2014

Abstract: The in-flight performance validation of the experimental autonomous formation keeping system embarked by the German TanDEM-X formation has been performed during a 12-day-long closed-loop campaign conducted in June 2012. Relative control performance better than 10 m was achieved, demonstrating that a significant gain of performance can be achieved when the control of the formation is done autonomously on-board instead of on-ground. Furthermore, the formation keeping system was shown to be operationally robust, easy to operate and fully predictable, i.e., fully suited for routine mission operations. This campaign concludes successfully a series of validation activities, opening new doors to future innovative scientific TanDEM-X experiments for which enhanced formation control is required.

Online publication date: Tue, 13-May-2014

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