High Performance Electrostatic Sensors and Actuators for LISA Proof Mass Control

Abstract

This document contains two presentations which describe the working principles of a class of electrostatic multidimensional sensors and force actuators. The subject of the study is the search of the most effective methods for measuring the position of a cubical conducting proof mass which floats in a weightless environment. The same proof mass must be controlled with a feedback loop by applying forces with the same set of electrodes. For more information please see the web site: http://lisa.jpl.nasa.gov/