1050. Approximating Inertia Uncertainties for Satellite Flat Spin Analysis
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Paper
Abstract
Inertia parameters discussed in this paper are the spin to transverse ratio and the
difference in transverse moments of inertia. Equations derived in this report will yield
approximate uncertainties for the inertia parameters for flat spin analysis of dual spin
spacecraft. These uncertainties must have the independent and dependent elements correlated and/or cancelled to be of value.
The uncertainty of the spin to transverse ratio when applied to the nominal value gives a
confidence level relative to the critical ratio of 1.00. The uncertainty of the difference
in transverse moments of inertia when applied to the nominal value and compared to the torque
that a dual spin spacecraft de-spin motor can supply gives insight as to whether that spacecraft
can be recovered from a flat spin.
In the past, both uncertainties were estimated without separation of independent and dependent
variables, yielding highly inaccurate values in most cases. The generally high inaccuracies imposed
confining restrictions on the mass properties engineer. This could result in unnecessary ballast
weight addition or imply that physical measurements are required where calculated values would suffice.
Therefore, it is of economical importance that these inertia parameters be accurately estimated.
