Method of constructing the optimal thrusters' location for the simultaneous orbit correction and reaction wheel desaturation

This paper considers the problem of optimal thrusters location on-board the geostationary satellite. It is necessary to simultaneously provide orbit correction and reaction wheels desaturation. In this work a method of formalizing the problem is proposed, that is convenient for obtaining necessary and sufficient conditions for thrusters location. Further, a method for finding optimal thrusters location is presented. Examples of their location under all the limitations and requirements are given, both in the regular mode and in the irregular mode, when one of the thrusters is failed. Moreover, the effect of possible installation errors and center of mass shift are considered.