Type N-Integral Space Tracking Configurations

Abstract

Theoretical and computer investigations into type N-integral tracking configurations for space tracking radar systems have established significant advantages in the use of high-order tracking loop types. This paper presents the results of a theoretical and computer investigation that focuses attention on type N-integral tracking configurations in space-tracking radar systems. The type N-tracking configuration, which uses N-pure integrations in the tracking loop, results in feedback types of high order. The paper illustrates how this class of tracking systems minimizes tracking errors while overcoming the effects of multiple frictional nonlinearities and structural resonances of the radar. In addition, the results of the theoretical investigation are applied to the design of a practical satellite tracking radar system. The results of the system's computer simulation agreed very well with the theoretical predictions and conclude the presentation of the paper.