NASASpaceFlight.com Forum

General Discussion => Q&A Section => Topic started by: cube on 04/04/2022 02:21 pm

Title: Starlink Satellite Attitude Control ?
Post by: cube on 04/04/2022 02:21 pm

Hello, what is the attitude control system used by space x starlink satellites? Thank you !

Title: Re: Starlink Satellite Attitude Control ?
Post by: gongora on 04/04/2022 03:27 pm

Reaction wheels

Title: Re: Starlink Satellite Attitude Control ?
Post by: Proponent on 04/04/2022 03:32 pm

So, reaction wheels occasionally unloaded with Hall Effect thrusters?

Title: Re: Starlink Satellite Attitude Control ?
Post by: DanClemmensen on 04/04/2022 03:58 pm

Quote from: Proponent on 04/04/2022 03:32 pm

So, reaction wheels occasionally unloaded with Hall Effect thrusters?

Many satellites use torque rods to avoid saturation. They couple to the Earth's magnetic field.  No fuel needed, just electric power. I do not know if Starlinks have them.
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetorquer