Two algorithms are disclosed that, with the use of a 3-axis
accelerometer, will be able to determine the angles of
attack, sideslip and roll of a
capsule-type
spacecraft prior to entry (at very high altitudes, where the atmospheric density is still very low) and during entry. The invention relates to
emergency situations in which no reliable attitude and attitude rate are available. Provided that the
spacecraft would not attempt a guided entry without reliable attitude information, the objective of the entry
system in such case would be to attempt a safe ballistic entry. A ballistic entry requires three controlled phases to be executed in sequence: First, cancel initial rates in case the
spacecraft is tumbling; second, maneuver the
capsule to a heat-shield-forward attitude, preferably to the trim attitude, to counteract the heat rate and
heat load build up; and third, impart a ballistic
bank or
roll rate to null the average lift vector in order to prevent prolonged lift down situations. Being able to know the attitude, hence the attitude rate, will allow the
control system (nominal or
backup, automatic or manual) to cancel any initial angular rates. Also, since a heat-shield forward attitude and the trim attitude can be specified in terms of the angles of
attack and sideslip, being able to determine the current attitude in terms of these angles will allow the
control system to maneuver the vehicle to the desired attitude. Finally, being able to determine the roll angle will allow for the control of the roll ballistic rate during entry.