RCS simulation of spacecraft based on orbital dynamics

A method for RCS simulation of spacecrafts is developed. The Keplerian orbit and its perturbations are discussed before a simulated trajectory is given. Based on orbital dynamics and Euler's transformation, the attitudes of spacecraft are determined and the incident wave angle is calculated. Then, a 3D model of spacecraft is constructed for RCS calculation through physical optics (PO) method. The simulation results demonstrate good estimates of RCS for spin-stabilized spacecrafts. The method also shows efficiency of RCS simulation which can be used for further research on EM reflectivity of in-orbit spacecrafts.