Rotation matrix-based finite-time attitude synchronization control for flexible spacecrafts with unknown inertial parameters and actuator faults

This paper studies the distributed attitude synchronization control for flexible spacecrafts with the consideration of unmeasurable modal variable and partial loss of actuator effectiveness faults. The designed rotation matrix-based controller consisted of the basic pattern and the supplementary pattern. Based on a connected undirected graph, the original graph was established on the assumption of inexistent actuator fault, and the unavailable flexible dynamics was approximately described by neural networks (NNs). By using the minimum learning parameter (MLP) algorithm, the finite-time stability of the formation system was improved and the burdensome computation was lightened. A modified sliding mode surface (SMC) is presented which can avoid singularity and the tracking errors can be stabilized to the equilibrium within finite time. (C) 2021 Published by Elsevier Ltd on behalf of ISA.