Background
The Digital Sun Sensor (DSS) is a critical instrument for determining spacecraft attitude and navigation, functioning alongside gyroscopes to compute three-dimensional coordinates of a satellite's orientation. It operates by using linear algebra to calculate the satellite's attitude based on sunlight direction detected via an opto-mechanical system. The sunlight passing through the optical aperture strikes a light-sensitive detector, such as a CMOS sensor, enabling precise attitude determination. This subsystem is essential for various spacecraft missions, such as satellite orientation for Earth imaging, solar panel energy harvesting, and communication systems.
This research employs the Pinhole Model theory and calculates the focal length based on the optimal distance for signal detection through a CMOS sensor. The system is designed to determine the Field of View (FoV) and incorporates digital image processing techniques, including object detection algorithms, to compute the intensity and position of sunlight. Using Euler's algebraic transformations, the system calculates the spacecraft's attitude coordinates. The detected signals are then fused with gyroscope measurements via a Kalman Filter to derive the most accurate attitude estimation.
Objectives
To develop an engineering prototype of the Digital Sun Sensor by integrating optical engineering and mechatronic technology, fostering self-reliance and high-value innovation in space technology for national security and sustainability.
Key Features
- Compact dimensions: approximately 25 x 25 x 15 mm (width x length x height).
- FoV: [-60, 60] degrees along the axis.
- Power consumption: 3W.
- Integrated with a high-precision robotic arm for calibration and comprehensive attitude determination in the prototype phase.
Market Context
- Availability: Commercially available abroad.
- Current market value: Approximately 5,000,000 THB.
- Prototype cost: Approximately 500,000 THB.
Innovation and Commercialization Potential
This technology has applications in various fields, including:
- Integration with solar panel systems.
- Development of aircraft navigation systems.
- Applications in missile systems, robotics, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Development Team
- Project manager
Dr. Peerapong Torteeka
NARIT - System Engineer
Shariff Manuthasna
NARIT - GNC Engineer
Thanayuth Panyalert
NARIT - Aerospace Engineer
Popefa Charoenvicha
NARIT - Aerospace Engineer
Tanawish Masri
NARIT - Mechatronics Engineer
Pakorn Khonsri
NARIT - Engineering Advisor
Dr. Potiwat Ngamkajornwiwat
PIM - Internship Engineer
Sorravit Prasitvarakul
PIM - Internship Engineer
Ratthanan Sakunthaksin
RMUTL - Internship Engineer
Thamakorn Thongyod
KMUTT
Contact Information
Dr. Peerapong Torteeka
Project Manager
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]