Understanding How the Hubble Re-Orients: The Mathematics Behind It

[zankaon]

How does Hubble Space Telescope (HST) re-orient itself; and what is an underlying mathematical description? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gyroscope"

 

[mgb_phys]

HST has tiny sensor gyroscopes which spin freely and so always point the same way it uses this to know which way is up.
For more accurate pointing it also star trackers built into some of the instruments.

It also has reaction wheels (also sometimes loosely called gyros) these heavy wheels spin like gyros and can be used to move the telescope. When the spin they tend to stay in the same plane and so when you push on them you move instead.

 

[charng]

The Hubble Space Telescope (HST) uses a combination of gyroscopes and reaction wheels to re-orient itself in space. Gyroscopes are devices that use the principles of angular momentum to maintain a fixed orientation in space. They consist of a spinning mass that resists changes in its orientation, allowing the telescope to maintain a stable position in space.

The HST has six gyroscopes, three of which are used for pointing and three for backup. These gyroscopes are constantly monitored and their readings are used to calculate any changes in the telescope's orientation. If a change is detected, the HST uses its reaction wheels to counteract the change and maintain its desired orientation.

The reaction wheels work by spinning in the opposite direction of the change in orientation, thus canceling it out. This process is controlled by an onboard computer that uses complex mathematical calculations to determine the necessary adjustments to the reaction wheels. These calculations take into account factors such as the telescope's mass, its current orientation, and the desired orientation.

The underlying mathematical description of this process is based on the principles of angular momentum and conservation of energy. By constantly monitoring the gyroscopes and making precise adjustments to the reaction wheels, the HST is able to maintain its position in space and capture stunning images of the universe.

In summary, the Hubble Space Telescope uses a combination of gyroscopes and reaction wheels, controlled by complex mathematical calculations, to re-orient itself in space and capture incredible images of our universe. This technology highlights the importance of mathematics in the field of space exploration and our understanding of the cosmos.