An analysis of ICBM navigation using optical observations of existing space objects
Name
639293386-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
10.31 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
ac65beaa9976ed30a03ead0a0e71a65c
Author(s)
Willhite, Weldon Barry
Advisor(s)
Richard E. Phillips.
Date Issued
2004
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
This thesis investigates the potential of a space-based navigation concept known as Skymark to improve upon the accuracy of inertially-guided intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). The concept is to use an optical tracker to take line-of-sight measurements to nearby space objects with known ephemerides to update the state knowledge of the onboard inertial navigation system. The set of existing space objects that would be potentially useful for this application are tabulated, and a simulation determines their availability from realistic trajectories. A follow-on navigation simulation investigates the accuracy improvement potential in terms of Circular Error Probable at impact. Two scenarios are investigated, one in which the Skymark system is an add-on aid-to-inertial-navigation for an existing missile system, and one in which the Skymark system is completely integrated with a new inertial navigation unit. A sensitivity analysis is performed to determine how several performance factors affect Skymark accuracy. Finally, a brief discussion of some operational implementation issues is included.
Description
Thesis (S.M.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Aeronautics and Astronautics, 2004.
Cataloged from PDF version of thesis.
Includes bibliographical references (p. 123).
Subjects
Aeronautics and Astronautics.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics
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copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but
reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written
permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission.
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