The Gemini, Apollo, and Space Shuttle astronauts have accomplished rendezvous and docking using navigation sensor technologies that were state-of-the-art in their days. However, new applications require more advanced technologies and a more capable, autonomous relative navigation sensor will be important for future space operations. Potential benefits include reduced crew training, reduced reliance on ground systems, and more operational flexibility. Additionally, new sensor technologies enable uncrewed automated operations in low earth orbit and beyond. New sensors can reduce or eliminate the need to augment target spacecraft with cooperative devices and thus provide for greater flexibility and enhanced mission success. This paper identifies a set of specific sensor capabilities for future space operations and describes a 3-D imaging ladar sensor conceptual design to provide those capabilities.
Relative navigation sensor for autonomous rendevous and docking
Laser Radar Technology and Applications VIII ; 2003 ; Orlando,Florida,United States
Proc. SPIE ; 5086
2003-08-21
Conference paper
Electronic Resource
English