Process and device for earth acquisition via the polar star for triaxially stabilised satellite on a small inclination orbit

摘要

In order to acquire the Earth from the Sun-pointed mode, the method commences by angularly displacing the satellite so as to bring the direction of the Sun into the field of view of a solar detection system, in an orientation S' such that a subsequent rotation of the satellite around this orientation S' brings the Polar Star into the field of view of a stellar detection system (4) with its optical axis substantially parallel to the pitch axis Y. During this rotation, the stars detected are compared with those contained in a catalogue containing, in addition to the Polar Star, stars likely to be encountered during this movement; at least two of these stars are identified, then the Polar Star is picked up. The satellite is turned in pitch until the Earth is detected, and the latter is captured. IMAGE