Robust Estimation Techniques for Onboard Spacecraft Orbit Determination with GPS Observations

Ning Zhou, Yanming Feng and Werner Enderle

Abstract:	In dynamic orbit determination, batch least-squares estimation is a robust and stable technique, which often outperforms a recursive filter. The problem is that a batch estimator assumes use of more sophisticated models for both force and observation models, dealing with large amounts of observations. As a result, the computational workload may not be acceptable for onboard orbit determination. In this paper, the short-arc batch estimation is experimentally studied in order to address both robustness and computational problems in GPS-based onboard orbit determination. The technical basis for the batch estimation will be outlined. The experimental results from three 96-hour data sets collected from Topex/Poseidon (T/P), SAC-C and CHAMP missions are presented. These results have demonstrated that use of shorter data arcs allows for simplifications of both orbit physical and observational models, while achieving a 3D RMS orbit accuracy of meter level consistently.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 15th International Technical Meeting of the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation (ION GPS 2002) September 24 - 27, 2002 Oregon Convention Center Portland, OR
Pages:	2004 - 2010
Cite this article:	Zhou, Ning, Feng, Yanming, Enderle, Werner, "Robust Estimation Techniques for Onboard Spacecraft Orbit Determination with GPS Observations," Proceedings of the 15th International Technical Meeting of the Satellite Division of The Institute of Navigation (ION GPS 2002), Portland, OR, September 2002, pp. 2004-2010.
Full Paper:	ION Members/Non-Members: 1 Download Credit Sign In