Automated Astronomic Positioning System.
Abstract
The report summarizes design studies, computer simulations, and the design of an Automated Astronomic Positioning System (AAPS). A vertically oriented optical system focuses the zenith star field onto a fixed reticle slit pattern. Earth rotation carries the star field across the reticle, causing star transits past the slits. These are timed and stored in a miniature field computer. A complete astronomic position is computed from these transit times during a site occupation of less than two hours. The necessary equipment is two-man back-pack portable and consists of Sensor Head (optics, slit reticle, photodetectors, level controller, reversal bearing and motor) and Control Unit (4th generation computer, clock, battery power pack, and control panel).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 30, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0736421
Entities
People
- Joseph E. Carroll
Organizations
- Control Data Corporation