Autonomous Orbit Determination

Author: Tianjiang Shuo

Website: https://cislunarspace.cn

Definition

A technique where spacecraft determine their own orbits using only inter-satellite ranging data and orbital dynamics models, without relying on ground stations. Around a single body, rotational symmetry of the gravitational field causes deficient rank in the information matrix when only inter-satellite range is used. In the three-body problem, the strong gravitational perturbation of the third body breaks this symmetry, enabling autonomous orbit determination.

Application Value

Autonomous Orbit Determination provides precise positioning capabilities for cislunar spacecraft and is a key technology for autonomous navigation.

References

  • Liu et al. 2024, A novel autonomous navigation constellation in the Earth–Moon system
  • 黄勇 等 - 2023 - 地月空间探测器星间测距自主定轨
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Contributors: ouyangjiahong, Ou Yang Jiahong