Methods of variable analysis and synthesis of the complex process of controlling a system of spacecraft electric propulsion thrusters

The paper identifies methods of variable analysis and synthesis of complex processes occurring onboard spacecraft providing their system-wide analytical representation. Discussed as an example of the methods application is the controlling of a system of electric thrusters on Yamal spacecraft. Analysis and synthesis in the said system were performed for subsequently optimizing the propellant consumption during maneuvers by selecting a system control option with minimal mass flow rate in the thrusters. Additionally, the said methods made it possible to resolve anomalies in the system, which otherwise would have resulted in reduced life expectancy of its elements and system failures. The paper presents validation of the newly identified methods for variable analysis and synthesis of complex processes during control of one of the onboard systems in an actual mission of a Yamal spacecraft. The use of the methods made it possible to significantly reduce propellant requirements for the communication satellites geostationary mission and prevent the propagation of a hidden anomalous situation which actually occurred and would have resulted in the failure of one of the system’s elements. An axiom and a hypothesis were defined, which are the newly introduced methodological foundations for variable flight control of a spacecraft. The proposed hypothesis was confirmed based on the results of its verification during a spacecraft maneuvering using a system of electric thrusters.