Attitude detection method of nano satellite hit-sat by fluctuation of received signal strength

Abstract

In recent years, many universities have already launched small satellite on-orbit. Attitude information is important for satellite operation. However, many nano-satellite communication systems used amateur radio by narrow bandwidth frequency segment. Therefore, down-link of attitude information is expected to require substantial time. In this paper, we propose establishment of the attitude estimation method by means of the received radio power. And, satellite attitude information being estimated from the fluctuation of the received power. Then, comparison of satellite data obtained from on-board sensors with ground experiment. One major problem in this approach is the effect of Earth's ionosphere. As the radio signal passes through the ionosphere, the polarization angle is rotated by the Faraday Effect. The detection of attitude by the radiation pattern has been assumed that inaccurate. However, we are get data the spin satellite of liner polarization antenna. As a result, we can estimate 0.12rad/s accuracy of angular velocity measurement. This method can be applied to the attitude detection of many small satellites. © 2009 The Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan.