LQG Optimal Control for Space Launch Vehicle Thrust Vectoring

Abstract

The present work proposes a thrust vector control (TVC) system for space launch vehicles, utilizing an optimal Linear-Quadratic-Gaussian (LQG) control framework. The proposed controller is synthesized by integrating a Linear-Quadratic Regulator (LQR) for optimal state feedback with a Kalman filter for states estimation. This combined architecture directly addresses system uncertainties and measurement noise. Simulation results demonstrate that the LQG-based TVC system achieves significant performance enhancements, including superior trajectory tracking accuracy, substantial reduction in attitude drift, and improved overall stability. The results demonstrate that optimal control strategies, namely the LQG approach, provide a more effective and reliable pathway to ensuring precision, stability, and ultimate mission success in demanding aerospace applications.