Asteroid Interception via Nonlinear Rocket Control
Description
This project focuses on simulating, modelling, and controlling a rocket to intercept an asteroid before it strikes a city. The system was implemented in MATLAB and Simulink, combining physics-based modelling, numerical estimation, and nonlinear control.
Key goals included estimating the asteroid's drag coefficient, modelling rocket dynamics using Lagrangian mechanics, and designing controllers to achieve accurate, angle-constrained interceptions. A sequence of milestones progressively refined the approach: drag estimation, basic trajectory interception, and final angle-constrained control.
The project demonstrates the successful application of nonlinear dynamics, structured control design, and parameter tuning — aligning with real-world engineering practices.