A hybrid method for accurate star tracking using star sensor and gyros.

Area of Science:

• Aerospace Engineering
• Navigation Systems
• Sensor Fusion

Background:

• Star tracking is the primary mode for star sensors, crucial for accurate navigation.
• Existing methods face challenges in maintaining accuracy under dynamic conditions.
• Improving tracking efficiency and precision in aircraft navigation is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and validate a hybrid method for enhanced star tracking accuracy and efficiency.
• To integrate star sensors and gyroscopes for robust performance across dynamic flight conditions.
• To improve star position prediction for autonomous navigation systems.

Main Methods:

• A hybrid method combining star sensors and gyroscopes is developed.
• Aircraft dynamic conditions are assessed using estimated angular acceleration.
• Low-dynamic conditions utilize star sensor vector measurements for angular velocity estimation.
• High-dynamic conditions rely on calibrated gyros for angular velocity acquisition.
• Star position prediction is performed using estimated angular velocity and calibrated gyros.

Main Results:

• Semi-physical experiments confirm the hybrid method's accuracy and feasibility.
• The hybrid method demonstrates superior star position prediction compared to vector difference and gyro-assisted methods.
• Enhanced accuracy is validated across different dynamic scenarios with simulated star centroid noise.

Conclusions:

• The proposed hybrid star tracking method offers significant improvements in accuracy and efficiency.
• This approach provides a robust solution for aircraft navigation under diverse dynamic conditions.
• The validated performance highlights the potential for advanced autonomous navigation systems.