Launch detection satellite system engineering error analysis Martin Ronald Beaulieu
Publisher: Naval Postgraduate School; Available from National Technical Information Service
Published: 1996
Place of publication: Monterey, Calif; Springfield, Va
Language: eng
Number of pages: 110
Description: An orbiting detector of infrared (IR) energy may be used to detect the rocket plumes generated by ballistic missiles during the powered segment of their trajectory. By measuring angular directions of the detections over several observations, the trajectory properties, launch location, and impact area may be estimated using a nonlinear least-squares iteration procedure. observations from two or more sensors may be combined to form stereoscopic lines of sight (LOS), increasing the accuracy of the estimation algorithm. The focus of this research has been to develop a computer-model of an estimation algorithm, and determine what parameter, or combination of parameters will significantly affect on the error of the tactical parameter estimation. This model is coded in MATLAB, and generates observation data, and produces an estimate for time, position, and heading at launch, at burnout, and calculates an impact time and position. The effects of time errors, LOS measurement errors, and satellite position errors upon the estimation accuracy were then determined using analytical and Monte Carlo simulation techniques.
Notes: "March 1996."

Thesis advisor(s): Kyle T. Alfriend, Thomas Jerardi.

Thesis (M.S. in Astronautical Engineering)--Naval Postgraduate School, March 1996.

Includes bibliographical reference (p. 105-106).

Approved for public release; distribution unlimited.

Also available online.

Mode of access: World Wide Web.

System requirements: Adobe Acrobat reader.