Data Analysis Of A Spinning Payload Using Sun Sensors

摘要

This paper describes the data acquisition and analysis of a spinning payload using sun sensors to determine body attitude. Body attitude is determined by locating the spin axis in a space-fixed and a body-fixed reference frame. Obtaining attitude information on payloads that are spinning in excess of 1800 degrees per second has always been a challenge, especially when the payload is small and is required to withstand 15000 g axial accelerations. This paper gives the background on why the attitude data is difficult to get, on why this information is needed, and a short history of this test technique. A description of the hardware and test instrumentation precedes the derivation of the data analysis equations.