Satellite attitude sensor with microbolometer detector arrays

Paul J. Thomas, Charles Hersom, Gilbert Pitre, Mayes Mullins, Allan Hollinger, Doug Staley, Zvika Afik, Nicolay Stoev, David R. Demmer

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

The Satellite Attitude Sensor (SAS) utilizes infrared bolometer arrays to perform the role of a staring horizon sensor with good accuracy and a wide field of view that avoids mechanical scanning. An innovative concept has resulted in a simple and inexpensive design suitable for the requirements of both low and high altitude orbits. Although SAS was designed especially for Earth-observing micro-satellites, it is applicable to satellites with geosynchronous or highly elliptical orbits and the update rate is sufficient for use with a spinning satellite or a rocket. The ability of the sensor to operate in both spinning and 3-axis stabilized modes will allow it to fulfill the needs of a large variety of scientific and remote sensing applications. Laboratory tests are in process to verify the design.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)128-134
Number of pages7
JournalProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume3439
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Dec 1998
Externally publishedYes
EventEarth Observing Systems III - San Diego, United States
Duration: 19 Jul 200221 Jul 2002

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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