A low-cost GPS inertial guidance (GPSIG) for space boosters

Abstract

The GPS (Global Positioning System) application requirements for a variety of space vehicles, including the Space Transport Vehicle (STV), the Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle (OMV), the heavy lift launch vehicles of the Advanced Launch Systems (ALS) family and the Shuttle C (cargo), space platforms, and future manned vehicles, are summarized. GPS usage on unmanned space boosters is examined in greater depth. The requirements in the areas of performance, operational constraints, redundancy/reliability, implementation, and life cycle cost are detailed. Variations from the typical GPS/INS (inertial navigation system) integration approach are presented, including deletion of some inertial sensors, various types of inertial sensors, and multiplexed and separate channel receivers.<>