Present status and perspectives about measurement technology of inter-satellite relative position and relative attitude

摘要

Remote measurement, target searching and tracking missions being performed in space, bring new application for small satellites. To achieve relative navigation, attitude control and other important applications, inter-satellite relative position and relative attitude must be known. In this paper, the measurement procedures of relative position and relative attitude are given. The principles of some measurement means are discussed. The analysis of these means is presented. The modified laser ranging method is mentioned. It points out that the laser ranging method is the promising one among these methods. Achieving the continuous measurement of relative position and relative attitude in some stringent missions may require combination of various methods. And some characteristics of space environment are also discussed. The multipath effects of laser are analyzed and an available approach that can avoid these effects is provided. Finally, the outlook of the measurement of relative position and relative attitude is represented.