Cassini stellar reference unit: performance test approach and results

Valerie C. Thomas; Randel C. Blue; Dorico Procopio

doi:10.1117/12.253428

7 October 1996 Cassini stellar reference unit: performance test approach and results

Valerie C. Thomas, Randel C. Blue, Dorico Procopio

Proceedings Volume 2803, Cassini/Huygens: A Mission to the Saturnian Systems; (1996) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.253428
Event: SPIE's 1996 International Symposium on Optical Science, Engineering, and Instrumentation, 1996, Denver, CO, United States

Abstract

The Cassini Stellar Reference Unit (SRU) is the prime attitude determination sensor on the Cassini spacecraft. It must operate continuously and reliably during both the cruise and the Saturnian tour phases of the mission. In fact, accuracy requirements are most critical toward the end of the mission, during the four years of scientific observations at Saturn. To ensure that the SRU will operate within specification for the entire mission, an extensive test program has been undertaken to characterize the SRU performance prior to launch and to quantify any expected performance degradation. Results from several complimentary test programs are presented and compared with pre-test performance predictions. Additionally, a unique approach is described for enabling closed-loop testing of the SRU with the other elements of the Cassini Attitude and Articulation Control Subsystem when no optical stimulation is available.

Citation Download Citation

Valerie C. Thomas, Randel C. Blue, and Dorico Procopio "Cassini stellar reference unit: performance test approach and results", Proc. SPIE 2803, Cassini/Huygens: A Mission to the Saturnian Systems, (7 October 1996); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.253428

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available