Research on Segmented Weighted Multi-vector Attitude Determination Method Based on On-Orbit Accuracy of Star Sensors

A segmented weighted multi-vector attitude determination method based on on-orbit accuracy of star sensors is studied to improve the fact that the current attitude determination methods cannot make full use of the measurement data when a large number of star sensors are equipped on a satellite and the problem that the attitude determination accuracy is susceptible to the temporary decline of the measurement accuracy of one single star sensor. The proposed method is based on QUEST algorithm, where the weighted coefficients are meliorated considering the layout angles of star sensors, mechanical installation structure and on-orbit measurement accuracy of star sensors. A mathematical simulation using on-orbit data shows that the attitude determination accuracy can be maintained at the high level, when the measurement accuracy of a star sensor declines.