Optical navigation system

Michael A. Paluszek, Joseph B. Mueller, Michael G. Littman

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

14 Scopus citations

Abstract

The Optical Navigation System (ONS) is a flexible navigation system for deep space operations that does not require GPS measurements. The navigation solution is computed using an Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF) that can accept any combination of range, range-rate, planet chord width, landmark and angle measurements using any celestial object. The UKF employs a full nonlinear dynamical model of the orbit including gravity models and disturbance models. The ONS package also includes attitude determination algorithms using the UKF algorithm with the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). The IMU is used as the dynamical base for the attitude determination algorithms. That is, the gyros model is propagated, not the spacecraft model. This makes the sensor a more capable plug-in replacement for a star tracker, thus reducing the integration and test cost of adding this sensor to a spacecraft. The linear accelerometers are used to measure forces on the spacecraft. This permits accurate measurement of the accelerations applied by thrusters during maneuvers. The paper includes test results from three cases: a geosynchronous satellite, the New Horizons spacecraft and the Messenger spacecraft. The navigation accuracy is limited by the knowledge to the ephemerides of the measurement targets but is sufficient for the purposes of orbit maneuvering.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationAIAA Infotech at Aerospace 2010
StatePublished - Dec 16 2010
Externally publishedYes
EventAIAA Infotech at Aerospace 2010 - Atlanta, GA, United States
Duration: Apr 20 2010Apr 22 2010

Publication series

NameAIAA Infotech at Aerospace 2010

Other

OtherAIAA Infotech at Aerospace 2010
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityAtlanta, GA
Period4/20/104/22/10

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