GNC stands for Guidance, Navigation, and Control. This subsystem is responsible for determining the orientation of the spacecraft in orbit and controlling that orientation. The GNC system interacts with nearly all of the subsystems to ensure that the spacecraft’s orientation complies with their requirements.
Tasks:
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Developing algorithms on board to control orientation of the spacecraft
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Implementing dynamics models into software
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Use software to closely interact with hardware components on the satellite including magnetometers, sensors, and the battery management systems
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Work on simulations to perform tests on earth (Helmholtz Cage implementation)
DESCRIPTION
SUBSYSTEM
GUIDANCE, NAVIGATION, AND CONTROL
HOW DO YOU CONTROL A SATELLITE?
The GNC team uses Basilisk, a software developed by Dr. Hanspeter Schaub of UC Boulder, to create high-fidelity simulations of the satellite in orbit.
The RebelSat team needs to perform simulations to ensure that the CubeSat will operate as intended once it is launched into space. Simulations allow the team to model the behavior of the CubeSat during launch, in orbit, and in specific mission phases.
Simulations allow the team to test the CubeSat's performance under different conditions, such as changes in environmental factors like temperature and radiation.