Discrete Search Optimization for Real-Time Path Planning in Satellites

Abstract

This study develops a discrete search-based optimization method for path planning in a highly nonlinear dynamical system. The method enables real-time trajectory improvement and singular configuration avoidance in satellite rotation using Control Moment Gyroscopes. By streamlining a legacy optimization method and combining it with a local singularity management scheme, this optimization method reduces the computational burden and advances the capability of satellites to make autonomous look-ahead decisions in real-time. Current optimization methods plan offline before uploading to the satellite and experience high sensitivity to disturbances. Local methods confer autonomy to the satellite but use only blind decision-making to avoid singularities. This thesis' method seeks near-optimal trajectories which balance between the optimal trajectories found using computationally intensive offline solvers and the minimal computational burden of non-optimal local solvers. The new method enables autonomous guidance capability for satellites using discretization and stage division to minimize the computational burden of real-time optimization.