Problems of Nonlinear Dynamics for Large Space Structures

The motion of large structures around their centers of mass is investigated when the center of mass moves in the central gravitation field along Kepler orbit. The structure is modeled as a viscoelastic solid with high stiffness; the characteristic decay time of its free elastic oscillations is assumed to be small compared to orbital period of the center of mass. Linear elasticity is used, with frictional dissipation being introduced through Rayleigh function. The method of modal analysis together with the method of small parameter are used for solving problems involved.