Navigation during aerobraking missions has historically relied solely on radiometric Doppler data. Accelerometer data, available on all modern spacecraft, has the potential to supplement Doppler data, increasing operational tempos, filling tracking data gaps, and improving the accuracy of orbit determination solutions. However, integration of Doppler and accelerometer data into the batch filter solutions used for operational navigation has proven to be practically challenging, due to the narrow region of adequate linear approximation for acceleration incurred by drag. This work proposes to use the accumulated velocity changes derived from these values as a more compatible data type. Demonstrations of results focus on NASA’s Maven and ESA’s TGO mission, and how this technique can be used to improve operations for the upcoming Maven aerobraking phase with reduced tracking data and lighter staffing requirements.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Practical Orbit Determination for Aerobraking with Accumulated Accelerometer Data


    Contributors:

    Publication date :

    2018-05-20


    Type of media :

    Preprint


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English



    Application of Accelerometer Data to Mars Global Surveyor Aerobraking Operations

    R. H. Tolson / G. M. Keating / G. J. Cancro et al. | AIAA | 1999



    Aerobraking for Capture into Martian Orbit

    W. T. Suit / M. C. Lee / P. V. Tartbini et al. | NTIS | 1990



    Application of Accelerometer Data to Mars Odyssey Aerobraking and Atmospheric Modeling

    R. Tolson / A. M. Dwyer / J. L. Hanna et al. | AIAA | 2005