Earth-atmosphere-space simulator for testing horizon sensors

Vladimir Alperovich

doi:10.1117/12.211206

6 June 1995 Earth-atmosphere-space simulator for testing horizon sensors

Vladimir Alperovich

Proceedings Volume 2426, 9th Meeting on Optical Engineering in Israel; (1995) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.211206
Event: Optical Engineering in Israel: 9th Meeting, 1994, Tel-Aviv, Israel

Abstract

Infrared horizon sensors are used for determining the orientation of satellites. These sensors usually operate on the principle of detecting the discontinuity in the infrared radiance at the limb. For calibration and testing of the horizon sensors under ground conditions, it is necessary to simulate the infrared horizon of the Earth. The simple, compact simulator described in this paper simulates the radiation of the Earth horizon and the shape of the radiance transition from space to Earth for the spectral range of the horizon sensor. This enables the sensor to be tested as a function of the altitude and orientation of the satellite. The simulator employs a spherical mirror; near its focal surface there are two radiating surfaces simulating space and Earth, respectively. Thermal contrast is obtained by controlling the temperature difference between the two surfaces. Calculated magnitudes of the spherical aberration of the mirror and disposition of the two radiating surfaces with respect to the spherical mirror are used for simulation of the radiance profile shape of the Earth horizon. This paper describes the structure of the simulator, the method of determination of its main parameters and experimental evaluation of the simulator characteristics.

Citation Download Citation

Vladimir Alperovich "Earth-atmosphere-space simulator for testing horizon sensors", Proc. SPIE 2426, 9th Meeting on Optical Engineering in Israel, (6 June 1995); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.211206

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KEYWORDS

Sensors

Mirrors

Infrared sensors

Infrared radiation

Spherical lenses

Optical spheres

Satellites

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