Highly accurate, noncoherent technique for spacecraft Doppler tracking

Author

Jensen, J. Robert ; Bokulic, Robert S.

Author_Institution

Appl. Phys. Lab., Johns Hopkins Univ., Laurel, MD, USA

Volume

35

Issue

3

fYear

1999

fDate

7/1/1999 12:00:00 AM

Firstpage

963

Lastpage

973

Abstract

A two-way, noncoherent spacecraft navigation technique has been developed to provide velocity accuracy comparable to that available from a deep space coherent transponder (0.1 mm/s). The technique is compatible with the normal tracking procedures of the Deep Space Network (DSN) ground stations and does not require the use of a highly stable oscillator on-board the spacecraft. The measurement technique, potential error sources, and test results obtained with prototype hardware are described

Keywords

Doppler effect; ground support systems; radio tracking; radionavigation; space vehicles; transceivers; Deep Space Network ground stations; highly accurate noncoherent technique; interpolation; potential error source; prototype hardware; spacecraft Doppler tracking; telemetry aided Doppler tracking; time tagging; transceiver-based communication; two-way noncoherent spacecraft navigation; velocity accuracy; zero velocity bench test; Hardware; Measurement techniques; Navigation; Oscillators; Prototypes; Satellite ground stations; Space stations; Space vehicles; Testing; Transponders;

fLanguage

English

Journal_Title

Aerospace and Electronic Systems, IEEE Transactions on

Publisher

ieee

ISSN

0018-9251

Type

jour

DOI

10.1109/7.784066

Filename

784066