Project Title:

Micro-inertial momentum sphere stabilizers

  94-1	09.04	2567

  Micro-inertial momentum sphere stabilizers

Abstract:

This proposal outlines a Phase I plan for the design of a 
momentum sphere which provides spacecraft attitude control 
torques in three (3) axes as a single component. This is a major 
technological step forward in miniaturizing three axis spacecraft 
attitude control hardware as the current state of the art 
requires three (3) momentum wheels to provide three axis control. 
This proposal describes the momentum sphere concept that will 
replace three momentum wheels, illustrates the mass and power 
benefits of a momentum sphere, and shows the reliability 
enhancements provided by the momentum sphere concept. We plan to 
explore the possibility of using the Meissner Effect of 
superconducting materials for sphere suspension as an alternative 
to conventional rare earth magnetics in momentum sphere 
construction.

The momentum sphere has major applications in commercial 
spacecraft. While it is believed that all three axis stabilized 
vehicles could make effective use of this device, it would have 
special potential for two (2) particular groups of commercial 
space applications. These are small spacecraft and spacecraft 
operating at geosynchronus altitudes. Low cost versions of the 
device for earth-bound applications may lead to very inexpensive 
inertially stabilized optical systems for cameras, etc.

Key Words

Cybernet Systems Corporation
Suite B-101
1919 Green Rd.
Ann Arbor, MI 48105