Automation of Satellite On-orbit Checkout and Calibration Process

ABSTRACT: From the time that they are launched, space-based electro-optical infrared sensors are vulnerable to a wide variety of external threats and changes in on-board operating conditions (either forced by naturally occurring conditions or by man-made interference) that degrade the sensor performance so that it cannot provide calibrated data within the needed timelines. The focus of this work is to provide a comprehensive solution that involves rapid calibration with an automated response to changing operating conditions or situations that require rapid recalibration. This effort will construct a software process that automates the detection of conditions that require additional calibration activities and autonomously apply the correct calibration actions in real time in preparation for a hardware-in-the-loop demonstration. BENEFIT: The benefit to the remote sensing and target recognition communities of a robust autonomous satellite system that can intelligently manage on-orbit recalibration is that is enabling technology for"smart satellite"operations with minimal ground supervision or interaction. The"smart satellite"will have a process to recognize events that require recalibration, which would enable the satellite to continue its mission once the recalibration has been completed and verified in the face degrading situations that heretofore would have prevented the completion of the mission. This responsive technique will be applicable to a wide variety of platforms and event classes.