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| Solid-State Star Tracker Size Limitations |
| DTO 847 |
| Overview |
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The objective of this DTO is to characterize the performance of the orbiter's solid-state star tracker with a large, bright target-the International Space Station. Laboratory tests show that the SSST can track significantly larger and brighter objects that the orbiter's other star tracker-the image-dissecting tracker. It may be necessary to use the SSST to track the station during orbiter passes because the ISS will reach a size that could prohibit the use of the image-dissecting tracker under certain conditions very early in the assembly sequence. At a minimum, the SSST should be verified to track the ISS accurately up to 22.6 arcminutes, which is the largest size tested in the lab and the number that was used in analyzing potential problems that might be caused by the size of the ISS. If possible, the absolute upper limit to the size of an object that the SSST can track will be determined. This DTO will be performed when the orbiter separates from the ISS but only if specific lighting conditions exist. This is the second of three planned flights for this DTO. |
Editorial/Technical Comments: ShuttlePresskit
