Understanding Attitude Behavior of Inactive GLONASS Satellites using Spin Period Evolution

Rachman, Abdul (2023). Understanding Attitude Behavior of Inactive GLONASS Satellites using Spin Period Evolution. (Dissertation)

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Light curve analysis of defunct satellites is critical for characterizing the rotational
motion of space debris. Accurate understanding of this aspect will benefit active
debris removal and on-orbit servicing missions as parts of solution to the space
debris issue. In this study, we explored the attitude behavior of inactive GLONASS
satellites, specifically the repeating triangular pattern observed in their spin period
evolution. We utilized a large amount of data available in the light curve database
maintained by the Astronomical Institute of the University of Bern (AIUB).
The morphology of the inactive GLONASS light curves typically features four peaks
in two pairs and is attributed to the presence of four evenly distributed thermal
control flaps or radiators on the satellite bus. The analysis of the periods extracted
from the light curves shows that nearly all of the inactive GLONASS satellites
are rotating and exhibit the oscillating pattern in their spin period evolution with
an increasing or decreasing secular trend. Interestingly, three objects were found to
cycle between uniform and tumbling motion, indicative of the YORP effect. Through
modeling and simulation, we found that the oscillating pattern is likely a result of
canted solar panels that provide an asymmetry in the satellite model and enable a
wind wheel or fan-like mechanism to operate. The secular trend is a consequence
of differing values of the specular reflection coefficients of the front and back side of
the solar panels.
Using empirical models constructed from the spin period evolution of 18 selected
objects, we found significant variations in the average spin period and amplitude of
the oscillations, which range from 8.11 sec to 469.58 sec and 1.10 sec to 513.24 sec,
respectively. However, the average oscillation period remains relatively constant at
around 1 year. Notably, the average spin period correlates well with the average
amplitude. Also, the selected objects tend to rotate faster over their lifetime and
the rate is correlated with the angular acceleration. The empirical models can be
used to estimate the spin period at any point in time within the interval covered by
the observations and also in the future or in the past assuming that the oscillating
pattern is preserved and shows a (roughly) linear trend.

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