A Ground-Based Prototype of a CMOS Navigational Star Camera for Small Satellite Applications

Small satellites are now capable of performing missions that require accurate attitude determination and control. However, low size, power, and cost requirements limit the types of attitude sensors that can be used on a small craft, making attitude estimation difficult. In particular, star trackers—often the attitude sensors of choice for larger spacecraft—are not practical for small satellites. This paper describes a miniature navigational star camera based on CMOS sensor technology that is appropriate for small satellite applications. A ground-based prototype version has been built to demonstrate the technology. Hardware design and algorithms for star-pattern recognition and attitude estimation are discussed, along with simulation results and hardware test results.