G-TAG is a software tool for the multibody simulation of a spacecraft with a robotic arm and a sampling mechanism, which performs a touch-and-go (TAG) maneuver for sampling from the surface of a small celestial body. G-TAG utilizes G- DYN, a multi-body simulation engine described in the previous article, and interfaces to controllers, estimators, and environmental forces that affect the spacecraft. G-TAG can easily be adapted for the analysis of the mission stress cases to support the design of a TAG system, as well as for comprehensive Monte Carlo simulations to analyze and evaluate a particular TAG system design.
Any future small-body mission will benefit from using G-TAG, which has already been extensively used in Comet Odyssey and Galahad Asteroid New Frontiers proposals.
This work was done by Behcet Acikmese, James C. Blackmore, and Milan Mandic of Caltech for NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. This software is available for commercial licensing. Please contact Daniel Broderick of the California Institute of Technology at
This Brief includes a Technical Support Package (TSP).
Multibody Simulation Software Testbed for Small-Body Exploration and Sampling
(reference NPO-47196) is currently available for download from the TSP library.
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Overview
The document is a Technical Support Package from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) detailing the Multibody Simulation Software Testbed for Small-Body Exploration and Sampling, specifically focusing on the G-TAG simulation tool. G-TAG is designed to integrate the equations of motion for multi-body spacecraft systems, facilitating the simulation of surface sampling operations on small celestial bodies, such as comets and asteroids.
The G-TAG tool has been utilized in mission proposals, including the Comet Odyssey and Galahad Asteroid sampling missions. It provides critical insights into spacecraft dynamics during sampling operations, helping to ensure successful mission outcomes. The document includes examples of results generated by G-TAG, showcasing its capabilities in simulating various scenarios, such as the limiting survivability case where the spacecraft's elbow joint narrowly avoids contact with a comet's surface. This highlights the tool's utility in assessing contact forces and antenna pointing requirements during critical operations.
The modular structure of G-TAG allows users to customize simulations by modifying initialization parameters, integration methods, and post-processing techniques according to specific mission needs. This flexibility is essential for developing comprehensive guidance, navigation, and control (GN&C) simulations that can incorporate trajectory planning, sensor modeling, and advanced descent and ascent control strategies.
The document also acknowledges the collaborative efforts of researchers at JPL and emphasizes the importance of the internal Research and Technology Development program in funding this research. It serves as a resource for aerospace-related developments with potential technological, scientific, or commercial applications.
In summary, the Technical Support Package provides an overview of the G-TAG simulation tool's functionalities, its application in small-body exploration missions, and its significance in advancing spacecraft technology. It underscores the importance of simulation tools in ensuring the success of complex space missions and highlights JPL's commitment to innovation in aerospace research. For further inquiries or assistance, the document provides contact information for the Innovative Technology Assets Management office at JPL.
