Wavefront interferometric technique for accurate spacecraft relative attitude determination

Abstract

This paper deals with the problem of very accurate relative attitude determination between distant spacecraft, performed by laser interferometric techniques. The presented method, based on wavefront splitting interferometry with flat reflectors, is intended to be a possible alternative approach to the more classical one utilizing a telescope plus quadrant photodiode detector. Depending on the instrument configuration and size and on available detector technology, accuracy in the submilliarcsecond range appears achievable. The paper provides an introduction on flat-mirror interferometry, a presentation on basic relationships and fringe formation, and consideration of performance in attitude reconstruction.