Deep-space telecommunications systems will eventually operate at visible or near-infrared regions to provide increased information return from interplanetary spacecraft. This would require an onboard laser transponder in place of (or in addition to) the usual microwave transponder, as well as a network of ground-based and/or space-based optical observing stations. This article examines the expected navigation systems to meet these requirements. Special emphasis is given to optical astrometric (angular) measurements of stars, solar system target bodies, and (when available) laser-bearing spacecraft, since these observations can potentially provide the locations of both spacecraft and target bodies. The role of astrometry in the navigation system and the development options for astrometric observing systems are also discussed.
Systems Analysis for Ground-Based Optical Navigation
1992
18 pages
Report
No indication
English
Space Launch Vehicles & Support Equipment , Astronautics , Astrometry , Interplanetary spacecraft , Space navigation , Spacecraft tracking , Deep space , Position (Location) , Systems analysis , Telecommunication , Laser applications , Microwaves , Optical measurement , Transponders , Very long base interferometry
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