Finite‐time attitude synchronisation for multiple spacecraft

This study investigates the finite‐time attitude synchronisation problem for multiple spacecraft under a directed communication topology. Attitude synchronisation problem for a leaderless formation system without specified reference attitude is studied, and finite‐time control laws are proposed and analysed without using neighbours' angular velocity measurements. By applying the graph theory, homogeneous method and Lyapunov stability theory, it is proved that the system is globally finite‐time stable and attitude synchronisation can be achieved. Then the obtained control results are extended in the scenario with a stationary leader. Numerical simulations are finally given to demonstrate the effectiveness and feasibility of the obtained results.