Abstract
An autonomous star mapping attitude reference technique (SMART) suitable for providing three-axis attitude information is discussed. The paper examines the possibility of utilizing one field of view and only two stars to provide three-axis attitude information. The star field is examined for a uniqueness criterion based on the resolution of a star mapper. The system utilizes an electronic scanning star mapper and a small general purpose computer— thus no moving parts are utilized. The technique applies either to inertially stabilized or slowly spinning spacecraft. The star field is shown to be suitable for such a system provided the star mapper field of view is properly oriented with respect to mission orbital parameters or multiple mappers are utilized. Maps of star pair availability for star mapper fields of view of 20° and 40° are included. An estimate of the total attitude error based on star mapper accuracy is given. The system is capable of performing continuous attitude determination if the mission orbital parameters are sufficiently restrained or multiple mappers are utilized. The system may also be used to automatically update an inertial system for missions where the orbital parameters preclude the use of a single mapper.
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