Low cost guidance, navigation, and control system for launch vehicles

Abstract

A low cost Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GN&C) system for launch vehicles has been developed that exploits recent developments in Global Positioning System (GPS) and computer technology. To obtain low life cycle cost, simplicity and adequacy have become the design metrics. Use of commercial or ‘‘off‐the‐shelf’’ hardware and algorithms is the norm. Modular designs that avoid expensive and complicated integration and optimization are adopted to restrain cost. This system is now available as a low cost, commercial, off‐the‐shelf (COTS) product for sounding rockets, launch vehicles, and satellites.