An analysis of ICBM navigation using optical observations of existing space objects

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.