In order for the InSight spacecraft to execute a safe Mars landing, it was crucial that the navigation team accurately predict the trajectory and deliver the spacecraft to the targeted atmospheric entry point. One of the primary challenges faced by the Navigation Team was the accurate reconstruction and prediction of small but frequent velocity changes imparted by the spacecraft’s Attitude Control System thrusters. This paper discusses the in-flight thruster calibration campaign, the reconstruction and prediction of accelerations throughout various phases of cruise (including compensating for significant outgassing after launch and attitude transition), and the subsequent impact on atmospheric entry point delivery


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    Title :

    InSight attitude control system thruster characterization and calibration for successful navigation to Mars



    Publication date :

    2019-01-13


    Type of media :

    Preprint


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English



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