Lunar spacecraft powered descent control using higher-order sliding mode techniques

► A lunar landing module is robustly controlled by HOSM controller during powered descent. ► The HOSM design technique is applied to a high-fidelity model of Apollo Lunar Module. ► The design utilizes both the reaction control system actuators and the gimbal drive actuator. ► Performance is maintained with the controller and the observer implemented in discrete time. ► The efficacy of the design is confirmed via simulation of the 6 DOF Apollo Lunar Module model.