Case Study: CSEM SA develops a lighter satellite reaction sphere with COMSOL Multiphysics

CSEM SA designs a 20 cm reaction sphere with Comsol to replace four reaction wheels

Customer CSEM SA, a Swiss R&D center, faced the challenge of reducing the weight of satellite attitude control systems, where every kilogram saved avoids enormous launch costs. They aimed to replace four conventional reaction wheels with a lighter, single multi-axis reaction sphere, but its complex electromagnetic design required advanced simulation. To achieve this, they utilized COMSOL Multiphysics software from vendor Comsol.

Using Comsol's simulation capabilities, CSEM was able to model and finely tune the complex geometry and magnetic fields of their reaction sphere design, moving beyond limited analytical models. The Comsol model proved to be a powerful predictor, with computed forces matching test-bench measurements, enabling the team to explore optimized designs that reduce mass, increase torque density, and plan for future configurations that could lower power consumption.

CSEM SA