Study of satellite formation flying control by aerodynamic drag

Formation flying relative motion control in a Low Earth Orbit by aerodynamic drag is proposed. This paper examines two algorithms, i.e. Linear Quadratic Requlator (LQR) and Sliding Mode Control. Performance of control depends on algorithm parameters. Results of the comparative analysis of algorithms are presented. In addition, the maintenance of the formation configuration using two algorithms is analyzed in the presence of the $J_2$ harmonic perturbation.