Fluid Dynamic Attitude Control System (FDA)
ElmSpace
Passive fluid-dynamic attitude control system for CubeSat stabilization — no moving parts or propellant.
Technical specifications
- Type
- Passive fluid-dynamic attitude control system
- Stabilization method
- Closed-loop fluid dynamics
- Application
- CubeSat and small satellite passive attitude stabilization
- Power consumption (stabilization)
- None (passive operation)
- Max. Angular Momentum
- 1-20 mNms
- Torque
- up to 50 mNm
- Max. Power
- 1-3 W
- Interface
- RS-422, CAN 2.0
About
The ElmSpace Fluid Dynamic Attitude Control System (FDA) is the company’s flagship product — a passive attitude stabilization system for CubeSats and small satellites based on the fluid-dynamic principle. Unlike conventional ADCS hardware such as reaction wheels or thrusters, the FDA operates without moving parts, propellant, or active electronics for attitude control, relying on the behavior of fluid in a closed-loop tube system aligned with the satellite’s principal axes.
The passive nature of the FDA dramatically reduces system complexity, eliminates single-point mechanical failure modes associated with spinning reaction wheels, and requires no additional electrical power for basic attitude stabilization. This makes it particularly well-suited for low-cost CubeSat missions, educational satellites, and applications where simplicity, mass savings, and reliability are prioritized.
ElmSpace is the commercial pioneer of the fluid-dynamic attitude control concept for the miniature satellite market. The FDA product line is supported by an overview document, and the company provides engineering consultation and customization support for mission-specific requirements.
Documentation
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