Star Pattern Identification Technique by Modified Grid Algorithm

A star pattern identification algorithm, called modified grid algorithm, for attitude determination of spacecraft is addressed. The proposed algorithm is closely connected to a general pattern recognition technique. Each star is characterized by a well-defined pattern that can be determined by the surrounding stars. The so-called grid algorithm is one of the star identification algorithms based upon the pattern recognition approach. The proposed algorithm, is motivated by the conventional grid algorithm. To enhance the performance of the conventional grid algorithm, a modified method using polar grid, virtual grid, and multi-references is proposed. Simulation study is conducted for the demonstration of the new algorithm. The proposed modified grid approach turns out to make the grid algorithm more robust and reliable.