Table of Contents

Editor: Configuring a Reaction Wheel Array

Description

A reaction wheel is a type of flywheel that is used on satellites for attitude control. The purpose of a reaction wheel is to change the orientation of a satellite in space without using any propellant.

The principle behind a reaction wheel is based on the conservation of angular momentum. When a torque is applied to a spinning wheel, the wheel will start to rotate around an axis perpendicular to the direction of the torque. By controlling the speed and direction of rotation of the wheel, the satellite can be maneuvered and its orientation changed.

This guide will demonstrate how to configure a reaction wheel and set it up within array for use as part of a pointing system.

Learning Outcomes

  • Learn how to configure a custom reaction wheel array component.
  • Learn how to add expose a public variable on a custom component.