Research on High Precision Measurement of Sun Rays Vectors

A new type of high accuracy sun vector measurement method is presented in this paper. The sun sensor designed based on this method can obtain arc second accuracy. The method is simple and easy to implement and is applicable for satellite attitude measurement and control with high accuracy. Experimental results show that, the pointing accuracy of the sun vector measurement device designed based on the new method is better than 1 arc second, power consumption is less than 300mw and mass is less than 150g. This will make this type of sun sensor ideal for micro spacecraft.