GPS Satellite Attitude Control System - ACS

Attitude control systems maintain the position and orientation of satellites. Attitude control systems in satellites use a combination of momentum wheels, magnetic coils and thrusters to adjust the satellite’s position.

A momentum wheel is a device that controls the force applied to an object (such as a satellite) by changing the velocity and direction of a spinning wheel. Magnetic coils are windings of wires that can create magnetic fields. A magnetic coil may be used to develop a small force that can be used to adjust the position of an object (such as adjusting the position or direction of a satellite).

Thrusters are mechanical jet assemblies that redirect fluids or gasses to produce a force that can be used to change the position of a satellite. Because thrusters use chemicals that are kept in limited supply on satellites, the attitude control system will attempt to use the momentum wheel and magnetic coils before using the thrusters.

Attitude control is performed by sending commands from the control segment to the satellite. Never versions of GPS satellites have autonomous navigation (Autonav) capability. Autonav is the ability of a device or object to automatically track and adjust its position. 

   Global Positioning System - GPS Books

more details

Global Positioning System - GPS Book This book covers satellite position location technology and the GPS system has evolved. You will learn the functional parts of GPS systems, how they work and work together to provide position measurements that are accurate to within centimeters. $19.99 Printed, $16.99 eBook

   Add this Wireless Dictionary tool to your web site

In order to add this Wireless dictionary tool to your web site and give your visitors the way to lookup industry terms from more than 11,000 terms, acronyms, and definitions, just copy the HTML code below and put it into your web page where you want to provide access to your dictionary.