MINISTAR to STARLITE: Evolution of a Miniaturized Prototype for Testing Attitude Sensors

Area of Science:

• Spacecraft engineering
• Optical systems
• Attitude determination and control systems

Background:

• Star trackers are essential electro-optical devices for satellite attitude determination.
• Traditional testing relies on Optical Ground Support Equipment (OGSE).
• There is a growing need for compact, high-fidelity OGSE for pre-launch verification.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the development of MINISTAR, a compact prototype for star tracker testing.
• To describe the evolution of the MINISTAR concept into the STARLITE system.
• To highlight advancements in OGSE technology for satellite attitude sensors.

Main Methods:

• Development of MINISTAR, a compact electro-optical prototype generating synthetic star fields.
• Integration of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components for the STARLITE system.
• Radiometric and geometric calibration and validation in laboratory settings.

Main Results:

• MINISTAR successfully supported simultaneous testing of up to three star tracker units.
• The system demonstrated the capability to simulate celestial bodies and disturbances.
• The STARLITE system represents a next-generation OGSE with enhanced functionality and higher Technology Readiness Level (TRL).

Conclusions:

• The MINISTAR prototype provided a foundation for advanced star tracker testing.
• The STARLITE system, built on COTS components, addresses the demand for mature, high-fidelity OGSE.
• These developments facilitate realistic ground-based testing and pre-launch verification of satellite attitude sensors.