Aerodynamic coordinated control of attitude and relative position of a formation of microsatellites

Satellites in very low Earth orbits can leverage the aerodynamics forces for control purposes. Three-axis attitude control can be achieved by adjusting the orientation of aerodynamic surfaces, benefiting from both drag and lift forces. However, complete control over the orbital motion of a satellite is unattainable using aerodynamic forces alone, as positive thrust cannot be generated. Nonetheless, this limitation does not apply when focusing on the control of a satellite formation. By properly modulating the orientation of panels, positive and negative relative forces can be generated. This paper shows that even in a formation of simple microsatellites, it is possible to achieve formation and attitude simultaneous control by using no other actuators than the aerodynamics surfaces.