Abstract: The application of lowcost micronano satellite clusters to perform space missions has drawn considerable attention in recent years. In this paper, the artificial potential field method is combined with the speed feedback control law based on the dynamics equations of relative motion for the loose formation control task of the satellite clusters. An attractive potential field is established between each satellite and the target. The intersatellite collision avoidance potential field is established based on position information. The obstacle avoidance potential field is established near space obstacles. In addition, the speed feedback control law is adopted to comprehensively realize the loose formation control of satellite clusters. Some simulations are presented to verify the effectiveness of the proposed control method.

Key words: satellite cluster, loose formation, artificial potential field, collision avoidance, obstacle avoidance