Application of the optical method of relative navigation on small spacecraft
- 1 Saint Petersburg State University of Aerospace Instrumentation (St.-Petersburg, Russia)
Abstract
Low-orbit satellite constellations are currently in active use. Controlling such a constellation requires solving the problem of relative navigation with the precision required to complete the mission.
Objective – consider the feasibility of using an optical relative navigation system on small spacecraft in low-Earth orbit. Such a system allows for the position of the observed satellite relative to the camera to be determined with high accuracy, which is important for scientific missions and short-range satellite control.
The initial conditions of the problem have been established. The satellites move in a single low-Earth orbit with low eccentricity, at an altitude of up to 600 km. The formation state (a constant distance between the satellites, with a near-zero linear relative velocity) is maintained. During active maneuvers (changing the orbit or distance between the satellites), the optical system is either auxiliary or not used at all.
Negative factors and possible methods for compensating for these influences are considered. The use of a Cassegrain reflector as a camera lens is proposed. This solution allows for measurements at short distances between the satellites (approximately 5 km). Modern engineering solutions and the technological base allow for a compact system implementation and integration into the microsatellite's equipment.
Requirements for the camera's orientation accuracy for conducting measurements have been established. A scheme for integrating the system with the satellite's onboard equipment is proposed to improve the accuracy and reliability of the system.
The possibilities of using the system to solve additional problems, such as remote sensing of the Earth, providing a backup communication channel, conducting observations of stars, or searching for objects in adjacent orbits, are considered.
The use of the optical method of relative navigation allows for high-precision control of small spacecraft as part of a group.
- Received
- 07.07.2026
- Approved after review
- 20.07.2026
- Accepted
- 01.09.2026
How to cite
Аристов А.А. Применение оптического метода относительной навигации на малых космических аппаратах // Информационно-измерительные и управляющие системы. 2026. Т. 24. № 5. С. 13−19. DOI: https://doi.org/10.18127/j20700814-202605-03
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