An Integrated Approach for Homing Guidance of Space Based Interceptors

In this paper we consider target state estimation and interceptor guidance as one integrated homing guidance problem. By this we mean that early in the guidance and estimation design process, due consideration is given to the dual problems of estimation and control. Estimation requires measurements which in this case are the bearing measurements, provided by a strapdown Infra Red sensor. The paper looks at the following integrated aspects of the guidance problem: proper time-to-go estimation, the guidance law and the Kalman Filter structure. The chosen guidance law requires an estimate of the relative target position, velocity and acceleration. Therefore, the structure of the Kalman Filter is designed to estimate these quantities. This requirement makes it necessary to have the components of range to target as inputs to the Filter. Since, the passive infrared sensor only measures boresight errors, a method for synthetic range construction is described. Via 6-degree-of-freedom simulations the integrated guidance strategy, starting with angle measurements and ending with generation of acceleration command, is examined.