A quantum search algorithm for future spacecraft attitude determination

Abstract

In this paper we study the potential application of a quantum search algorithm to spacecraft navigation with a focus on attitude determination. Traditionally, attitude determination is achieved by recognizing the relative position/attitude with respect to the background stars using sun sensors, earth limb sensors, or star trackers. However, due to the massive celestial database, star pattern recognition is a complicated and power consuming job. We propose a new method of attitude determination by applying the quantum search algorithm to the search for a specific star or star pattern. The quantum search algorithm, proposed by Grover in 1996, could search the specific data out of an unstructured database containing a number N of data in only O(N) steps, compared to an average of N/2 steps in conventional computers. As a result, by taking advantage of matching a particular star in a vast celestial database in very few steps, we derive a new algorithm for attitude determination, collaborated with Grover's search algorithm and star catalogues of apparent magnitude and absorption spectra. Numerical simulations and examples are also provided to demonstrate the feasibility and robustness of our new algorithm.