Drag-free control system for frame dragging measurements based on cold atom interferometry

This paper describes the design and analysis of the drag-free and attitude control system (DFACS) for frame dragging measurements using a cold atom interferometer. The general architecture of the DFACS is derived and important aspects of the control system are discussed. This includes requirements and constraints, design and equipment issues. The actual control algorithms derived in this paper are designed as decoupled SISO controllers using modern optimal control theory (LQG, H∞). The performance of the control system is analyzed in a comprehensive simulation campaign. From the results it can be concluded that the proposed system can meet the requirements for frame dragging measurements, with very little additional technology adaptation for the drag-free sensor and micro-propulsion system.