Open-Loop Tracking of Moving Targets with an Aerobee Sounding Rocket,
Abstract
Tracking at finite (time-varying) range between target and Aerobee introduces problems unique in the use of sounding rockets. Systems synthesis was employed to determine the optimum instrument field-of-view considering background, launch errors, pointing errors, and Aerobee and target position errors versus time. An inertially referenced three-axis attitude control was employed to maintain the target within the field-of-view using pre-programmed maneuvers based upon the predicted relationship between target and Aerobee trajectories. Flight results from on-board aspect camera correlation with target and stellar background demonstrated that a moving target can be open-loop tracked with very good accuracy through rigorous control of error sources and comprehensive mission analysis. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 15, 1973
- Accession Number
- AD0768716
Entities
People
- J. H. Hedberg
- R. G. Steeves
- R. L. Ammons
Organizations
- Air Force Cambridge Research Laboratories