High Slew Rate Radiation Hardened Star Tracker

Optical Physics Company (OPC) completed the Phase I investigation of the Interferometric Star Tracker technology. The feasibility to meet 0.11 arc-second (3 sigma) accuracy at 2 Hz with a 20x20 degree field of view has been demonstrated. Analysis and simulation studies confirm that the design meets all additional thermal and radiation requirements in a compact (less than five pounds smaller than 100 cubic inches) and low power (6 Watts) package. During Phase II, OPC is proposing a 12-month base effort to develop a TRL 5 prototype of the technology and test its performance in an emulated star field. The work will start with radiation and lifetime tests on two critical components. This will be followed by prototype assembly and demonstration using multiple dim white light sources, emulating a star field. Impact of slew rate and temperature fluctuations on performance will be experimentally measured. The Phase II base effort will conclude with design of the TRL 6 Ground Demo unit. Two follow on options are included to produce and deliver a TRL 6 Ground Test Unit and a TRL 7 Flight Test Unit. If exercised, a flight ready unit can be delivered to the Air Force in August 2010.