On Orbit Relative Navigation and Proximity Sensing Using a GPS Bi-static Radar

Abstract

The objective of the work described was to build a nanosat as part for the UNP-6 competition cycle to demonstrate the use of the Global Positioning System (GPS) as passive bistatic radar for on-orbit relative navigation, proximity detection and remote sensing. This was the University of Minnesota s entry into the UNP-6. This bistatic radar will use GPS signals reflected or re-radiated from objects on orbit to detect, localize and perhaps characterize or image them. At a minimum, reflected GPS signals can be used to provide a relative navigation measurement between spacecraft (range and velocity), allowing for a passive sensor with little additional mass and no extra power. This is particularly useful when navigating relative to non-cooperative targets (e.g, during operation for servicing malfunctioning satellites) where traditional carrier phase differential GPS techniques which rely on GPS measurement data exchange between vehicles cannot be used.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 30, 2011
Accession Number
ADA578999

Entities

People

  • Demoz Gebre-egziabher

Organizations

  • University of Minnesota

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Abstracts
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Bistatic Radar
  • Classification
  • Competition
  • Contracts
  • Detection
  • Engineering
  • Global Positioning Systems
  • Nanosatellites
  • Navigation
  • Passive Sensors
  • Remote Sensing
  • Spacecraft
  • Students
  • Training
  • Vehicles

Readers

  • Acoustical Oceanography.
  • Inertial Navigation Systems.
  • Missile Defense Systems.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Space Objects
  • Space - Spacecraft Maneuvers