Stabilization for continuum models of large space structures in large attitude maneuvers

In this work we consider an infinite dimensional model of a large space structure with flexible elements. The control purpose consists of ensuring stability while performing large slew maneuvers. To this aim, a suitably accurate description of the nonlinear coupling between the rigid and the flexible motions of a spacecraft with flexible appendages is necessary. A control law from the state, ensuring global stabilization of the closed-loop solutions for any initial condition, is designed. Furthermore, considering the practical problems arising from the implementation of such a feedback, a control law from the output guaranteeing semiglobal stabilization, i.e., for any initial condition in a chosen region, is proposed. As opposite to the finite dimensional approach, which suffers the spillover effect, the proposed controllers ensure the asymptotic stabilization of all the modes.