Mechanical monolithic compact sensors for real-time linear and angular broadband low frequency monitoring and control of spacecrafts and satellites

In this paper we describe the characteristics and performances of a monolithic sensor designed for low frequency motion measurement of spacecrafts and satellites, whose mechanics is based on the UNISA Folded Pendulum. The latter, developed for ground-based applications, exhibits unique features (compactness, lightness, scalability, low resonance frequency and high quality factor), consequence of the action of the gravitational force on its inertial mass. In this paper we introduce and discuss the general methodology used to extend the application of ground-based folded pendulums to space, also in total absence of gravity, still keeping all their peculiar features and characteristics.