Nonlinear Model Predictive Control for Tracking a Fixed-ground Target

The book "Nonlinear Model Predictive Control for Tracking a Fixed-ground Target" offers an innovative solution to the problem of tracking fixed ground targets using satellites through a nonlinear model predictive control approach (NMPC). It introduces the C/GMRES algorithm as a fast and promising solver for optimal control problems in real-time. This algorithm addresses the significant computational demands associated with solving the Riccati differential equation through simple and efficient approximations. Additionally, a new control-oriented model is developed that transforms the main tracking problem into a straightforward control problem. This model is particularly advantageous in handling modeling errors and unforeseen external disturbances. The control inputs are updated by integrating time-dependent inputs and a vector of Lagrange multipliers, which represents the solution of a set of linear equations and meets the optimal conditions. The proposed method is simulated with real satellite parameters to track a fixed ground target for reconnaissance purposes.