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arXiv · 2604.00542

Star-Tracker-Constrained Attitude MPC for CubeSats

Dominik Beňo·Patrik Valábek·Martin Hromčík·Martin Klaučo
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Abstract

This paper presents an online linear model predictive control (MPC) framework for slew maneuvers that maintains star-tracker availability during ground-target tracking. The nonlinear rigid-body dynamics and geometric exclusion constraints are analytically linearized about the current state estimate at each control step, yielding a time-varying linear MPC formulation cast as a standard quadratic program (QP). This structure is compatible with established aerospace flight-software practices and offers a computational profile with lower online complexity than comparable nonlinear MPC schemes. The controller incorporates angular-rate, actuator, and star-tracker exclusion constraints over a receding horizon. Performance is assessed in high-fidelity nonlinear model-in-the-loop simulations using NASA's "42" spacecraft dynamics simulator, including a Monte Carlo campaign over varying target geometries and inertia perturbations.

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Dominik Beňo, Patrik Valábek, Martin Hromčík, Martin Klaučo. 2026-04-01. Star-Tracker-Constrained Attitude MPC for CubeSats. https://arxiv.org/abs/2604.00542

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