Saturated output feedback control for finite-time attitude stabilization of spacecraft

The finite-time attitude stabilization of spacecraft subject to actuator constraints and attitude measurements only is investigated. A saturated output feedback finite-time proportional-derivative control is proposed. Lyapunov stability theory and homogeneous method are employed to show the finite-time stabilization. Advantages of the proposed control include the finite-time stabilization featuring faster transient and higher precision and the absence of the modelling information and the velocity measurements in the control law formulation, and thus, it offers an easy-going solution for high-quality motion control of spacecraft. An additive feature is that the actuator saturation will not be reached by selecting the control gains a priori. Simulations are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed control.