Star tracker is an important device used for spacecraft attitude determination,which calculates the spacecraft’s attitude by observing the position of stars.PST(Pyramid Star Tracker),HST(High Sensitivity Star Tracker),and NST(Nano Star Tracker)are three different models of star trackers,each with its own characteristics in design and application scenarios.
High precision:PST star trackers typically have extremely high attitude determination accuracy,reaching sub angular second level.Adopting advanced image processing algorithms and high-resolution CCD or CMOS sensors.
Quick response:capable of quickly identifying and tracking stars,adapting to dynamically changing attitudes,suitable for high-speed rotating or rapidly maneuvering spacecraft.
Strong anti-interference ability:With good anti-interference ability,it can maintain stable operation in complex space environments.
Application scenario:
High precision scientific tasks,such as telescopes,deep space probes,and satellites that require precise attitude control.
Fast maneuvering spacecraft:such as military satellites or spacecraft that require frequent attitude adjustments.
High sensitivity:The main advantage of the HST star tracker is its high sensitivity,which can detect very dark stars and work normally in environments with weak light.
Large field of view:usually has a larger field of view,allowing for simultaneous observation of more stars,improving the reliability and redundancy of attitude determination.
Robustness:Designed to be relatively robust and able to work in harsh space environments for a long time.
Application scenario:
Deep space exploration:In deep space exploration missions far from the sun,the high sensitivity of the HST star tracker is very suitable due to weak light.
Long term in orbit satellites:Satellites that require long-term stable operation,such as Earth observation satellites,meteorological satellites,etc.
Miniaturization:The NST star tracker has a small size and light weight,making it very suitable for use with small satellites or CubeSat.
Low power consumption:Designed with low power consumption,suitable for small satellites with limited energy.
Strong integration:usually with high integration,it is easy to integrate with other system modules,simplifying satellite design and integration processes.
Application scenario:
Small satellites,such as CubeSats,NanoSats,etc.,typically have strict weight and space limitations.
Experimental satellites for universities and research institutions:The low-cost and miniaturization characteristics of the NST satellite tracker make it suitable for small satellite projects in the fields of education and research.
Constellation satellites:used in large-scale satellite constellations,requiring cost-effective and reliable attitude control equipment.
To sum up,the choice of star tracker mainly depends on the specific requirements of the task.Tasks that require high precision and fast response tend to choose PST star trackers;Tasks that require high sensitivity and robustness tend to choose HST star trackers;Tasks that require miniaturization and low power consumption tend to choose NST star trackers.
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TY-Space Technology (Beijing) Ltd. is professional focusing on advanced attitude optical sensors, especially Star Trackers for space industry.
