StarNAV with a wide field-of-view optical sensor

StarNAV is a method for inferring an observer???s velocity from measurements of starlight that have been perturbed by stellar aberration. This usually takes the form of measuring changes in inter-star angles as compared to a reference. Usable velocity estimates require either the measurement of (1) a few inter-star angles with high accuracy or (2) a great many inter-star angles with lower accuracy. This work explores the efficacy of a hypothetical sensor following the latter approach through the use of wide field-of-view (FOV) optical cameras. Key algorithmic considerations for processing large star fields are discussed and an exploration of the design space is performed. A feasible point design with proof-of-concept performance is developed and is shown to fit within a 3U CubeSat form factor.

Automated summary

StarNAV is a method for inferring an observer's velocity by measuring changes in inter-star angles using starlight. This study explores the effectiveness of using wide field-of-view optical cameras for this purpose. Key algorithmic considerations for processing large star fields are discussed, and a feasible point design with proof-of-concept performance is developed.