Star Tracker for Small Satellites

A star tracker, also called a star sensor, captures images of stars and matches them against an internal star catalog to determine a spacecraft’s three-axis attitude. For small satellites, manufacturers design star trackers to achieve extreme miniaturization, light weight, and low power consumption. Thus, they meet strict size, weight, and power (SWaP) limits.

Six Major Advantages of Star Trackers for Small Satellites

Ultra-High Precision Attitude Control

Star trackers deliver roll/pitch/yaw accuracy of 3–10 arcseconds. Therefore, they satisfy demanding pointing requirements for high-resolution imaging, laser communication, and deep-space science missions.

Extreme Miniaturization and Light Weight

Mainstream products weigh only 40–400 grams and fit within 50×50×90 mm. Consequently, they free up valuable space for payloads.

Ultra-Low Power Consumption

Average power draw stays between 0.5–2 W. Moreover, some models (like CubeStar) consume just 0.14 W, greatly extending survival time in eclipse periods.

Strong Radiation Resistance and High Reliability

Most products have proven 7+ years of life in LEO orbits. They withstand 9–30 krad of radiation, and several models offer a 7-year warranty.

Significantly Improved Cost-Effectiveness

Thanks to commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) trends, prices have dropped from hundreds of thousands to tens of thousands of dollars. Now, universities and startups can easily afford them.

Wide Range of Applications

Engineers deploy small-satellite star trackers everywhere—from Earth observation to inter-satellite links, and from deep-space exploration to mega-constellations.

Key Parameters When Selecting a Star Tracker for Small Satellites

Attitude Accuracy and Update Rate

Field of View (FOV) and Sun Exclusion Angle

Size, Weight, and Power Consumption (SWaP)

Interface and Integration Complexity

Environmental Adaptability