On feedback linearization of underactuated nonlinear spacecraft dynamics

The feedback linearization problem of an underactuated. spacecraft is considered. The spacecraft model considered is fully nonlinear with six degrees of freedom: three translational and three rotational. It is assumed that the control system has only four control inputs, i.e., the two degrees of freedom are unactuated. It is shown that the dynamical model of the spacecraft with trajectory-attitude parameter coupling having only one propulsion control can be linearized by a dynamic compensator. The linearization algorithm is also given.