COMPASS-1 pico satellite: magnetic coils for attitude control

Abstract

The COMPASS-1 Cubesat is an active controlled picosatellite by using magnetic coils as means of attitude control. The Attitude Control System (ADCS) is featured with a three-axis stabilizing capability. The ADCS was developed to stabilize the spacecraft against disturbances. Magnetic coils are mounted to generate control torque in the roll and yaw axes. The attitude sensors use magnetometer for measurements of the local magnetic field vector, GPS System for determine the position and sun sensors. The paper describes the required hardware components and the design and development of the electromagnetic torquers.