Method for Thermo-optic Analysis in a Star Sensor

  • Hai-bo Liu National University of Defense Technology, Changsha
  • Ji-chun Tan National University of Defense Technology, Changsha
  • Jian-kun Yang Beijing Aerospace Automatic Control Institute, Beijing
  • Xiu-jian Li National University of Defense Technology, Changsha
  • Qing-chun Fan Beijing Aerospace Automatic Control Institute, Beijing
DOI: https://doi.org/10.14429/dsj.60.354
Keywords: Star sensor, optical system, thermo-optic analysis, finite element analysis, FEA, ray tracing

Abstract

An autonomous star sensor is a highly accurate attitude-measuring instrument used in spacecraft, and its performance is restricted by ambient temperature of the outer space. This paper puts forward an effective scheme to the thermooptic analysis using finite element analysis (FEA) and ray tracing in star sensor. Specific difficulties: (a) how to evaluate thermo-optic effect in star sensor, and (b) how to make FEA results useful in optical design mode have been resolved using the scheme. Based on this scheme, the errors of star sensor, which are caused by thermo-optic effects, can be investigated in any complicated temperature condition, and the required temperature scope for the thermal design can be achieved. For example, the errors of the star sensor were 0.0863" and 2.2933", when the temperature differences of the experimental optical system were 10 °C and 5 °C in axial and lateral, respectively.

Defence Science Journal, 2010, 60(3), pp.276-281, DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.14429/dsj.60.354

Published
2010-04-21
How to Cite
Liu, H.- bo, Tan, J.- chun, Yang, J.- kun, Li, X.- jian, & Fan, Q.- chun. (2010). Method for Thermo-optic Analysis in a Star Sensor. Defence Science Journal, 60(3), 276-281. https://doi.org/10.14429/dsj.60.354
Issue
Vol 60 No 3
Section
Review Papers
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