Raymond Kristiansen | Searcharxiv

arXiv2026

Tracking the Effective Surface Area of Non-Convex Satellites

This paper presents a novel framework to track the effective surface area of non-convex satellites, enabling the use of aerodynamic drag in low Earth orbit for orbital control. The proposed framework enables the satellite to track the effective surface area while simultaneously performing other maneuvers. We introduce this framework through a backstepping control algorithm, and exemplify its advantages with an extension, to simultaneously maximize solar panel exposure. The equilibria of the closed-loop systems are shown to be asymptotically stable, and simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed framework.

eess.SY↗

arXiv2026

Leader-Follower Formation Control Using Differential Drag and Effective Surface Regulation

The growing interest in space activities has led to the emergence of new space operators and innovative mission concepts. Small satellites such as CubeSats reduce mission costs and are typically deployed in constellations or formation flights. Since they are often propulsionless, passive orbital control strategies are the standard, primarily through differential drag achieved via attitude control maneuvers. This work develops a control system to achieve a generic relative positioning between two small satellites in a virtual leader and real follower formation flight, relying entirely on differential drag achieved through attitude maneuvers. We propose a control law based on the integrator backstepping technique, which, in a closed loop with the rotational dynamics, results in the asymptotic stability of the closed-loop system equilibrium points. We demonstrate the asymptotic stability of the closed-loop system equilibrium points using the Lyapunov theory, and a numerical simulation assesses the effectiveness and accuracy of the control strategy.

eess.SY↗