Autonomous stellar angular reference systems (STARS) for hypervelocity strategic systems and space based interceptors

Abstract

Summary form only given. The authors discuss a solid-state stellar angular reference system (STARS) augmented by a low-cost inertial navigator for precision endo exoatmospheric hypervelocity strategic weapon systems and space-based interceptors. Inertial instrument performance, sensor integration, the stellar image, star tracker signal-to-noise ratio, star density, telescope field of view, and physical size constraints that affect overall system performance have been examined. Some of the unique features of this work are miniature holographic optical element telescope, all-silicon micromechanical inertial instruments, hypervelocity plasma effects, and trajectory-induced errors.<>