Abstract: The term XNAV (X-ray navigation) is used to describe a variety of means of using celestial X-ray source observations for spacecraft attitude, position, velocity, and time determination. Several classes of source observations can be utilized for different...
Abstract: In this paper, a methodology for dramatically reducing the time required to build a complex system based on the self-organization of self-describing components is presented. In this “plug-and-play” approach, component services are exposed for use through...
Abstract: The concept of utilizing pulsars for spacecraft navigation has been in development since the discovery of these rapidly rotating neutron stars in the 1960’s [1]. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) conducted studies in the 70’s and 80’s proposing the use of...
Abstract: Autonomous on-orbit servicing of satellites leads to a significant savings in mission life-cycle costs, especially for expensive satellites and for expensive satellite systems composed of many satellites, such as constellations or close formations. The...
Abstract: Autonomous navigation and orbit control can provide both significant operations cost reduction and increased mission performance. By controlling the orbit to match a chosen reference, ground operations are significantly reduced and scheduling becomes highly...