In-orbit satellite sensor alignment determination

Details In-orbit satellite sensor alignment determination In-orbit satellite sensor alignment determination

2006-08-15

2006-08-15

Poon, Peter M. (Department: 3643)

Aeronautics and astronautics

Spacecraft

Attitude control

C244S164000

Reexamination Certificate

active

07090170

ABSTRACT:
A sensor alignment system and method is provided that facilitates the precise alignment determination of satellite sensors. The system and method utilizes an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) to facilitate alignment determination of multiples sensors on a satellite. The system and method performs a roll of the satellite around a preliminary sensor active axis, using the IMU to measure the rotation rate in both magnitude and direction. The sensor input is monitored by the IMU during the roll around the preliminary sensor axis. The data from sensor output obtained during the roll can be processed to calculate the difference between the preliminary sensor axis and the actual sensor axis. From this calculation the actual alignment of the sensor axis can be determined. Furthermore, by performing this alignment determination operation for multiple sensors the relative alignment between sensors can be determined.

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Seing Peter Kad and John Abernathy, “A Ring Laser Gyro Based Staller Aided Inertial Navigation System”, Space and Strategic Avionics Division, Honeywell Inc, Clearview, Florida. 1988 ATAA Missle Science Conference Monterey, CA.

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