Implementation of a Multiplicative Extended Kalman Filter (MEKF) for Spinning Spacecraft Attitude Determination in the Astrodynamics Environment (ADE)

Kenneth J. Ernandes, Benjamin E. Joseph, Paul J. Cefola

Abstract

A spin-stabilized attitude determination capability was developed as a new feature in the Braxton Technologies Inc. Astro-Dynamics Environment (ADE). The attitude determination capability was implemented as a multiplicative extended Kalman filter. Because the design goal was to provide the maximum flexibility in solving for a fully dynamic spin state, six dynamic variables (attitude rotation and rate) are accounted for in the Kalman filter dynamics model. In order to verify the accuracy of the new attitude determination capability, a side-by-side comparison was made with the Air Force’s Command and Control System (CCS) as well as NASA’s Multimission Spin Axis Stabilized Spacecraft (MSASS) attitude determination systems. The resulting spin-axis attitude determination of the Braxton’s attitude determination is found to be of comparable accuracy to both MSASS and CCS.

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