DEFINITION:

It includes:

• Control Systems Engineering: Covers system aspects and AOCS/GNC functional chain engineering.
• Control Systems Innovative Technologies: Covers enabling technology developments dedicated to specific missions and generic applications.

(Source: ESA TD 5A and 5B)

SUBDOMAINS:

1.1 AOCS/GNC Architecture: Includes concept and mode definition, and selection and accommodation of sensors and actuators.

1.2 Autonomy and FDIR: Covers control-related aspects and implementation (with 1-D-4 , 1-D-5 and 1-L-2).

1.3 Pointing Error Engineering: Covers budget methodology and tools.

1.4 Control Requirements Engineering: Includes software algorithm specification (with 1-D-4 and 1-D-5) and sensor and actuator specification.

1.5 Control Design and Verification: Includes detailed analysis and performance verification on functional engineering simulators and avionic test benches.

2.1 GNC Technologies for Entry, Descent and Landing: Covers GNC technology developments for aero-braking, precision landing, hazard avoidance, real-time guidance and navigation, specialised simulation tools and test beds.

2.2 GNC Technologies for Cruise, Rendezvous and Docking or Capture: Covers GNC technology developments for exploration as well as active debris removal.

2.3 High Accuracy Pointing Technologies: Covers technology developments in AOCS and pointing acquisition and tracking systems.

2.4 Competitive AOCS Technologies: For commercial and generic applications, tackling cost reduction at all levels (design and verification effort, building-block approach, hybridisation of sensors, …).