Optical navigation is a crucial technology enabling spacecraft to autonomously determine their position and velocity using optical sensors like cameras and...
Optical navigation is a technique used by spacecraft to determine their position, velocity, and orientation by analyzing images captured by onboard cameras or telescopes, often observing stars, planets, or other celestial bodies.
Spacecraft capture images of known celestial objects or mission targets. By comparing these observed positions with expected data using advanced algorithms, the spacecraft calculates its precise location and trajectory relative to these objects.
Key benefits include enhanced autonomy for spacecraft, reduced reliance on ground control, improved precision for deep-space maneuvers and rendezvous, and effective operation in environments where radio signals are weak or unavailable.
It is vital for deep-space exploration, missions to distant planets or asteroids, rendezvous and docking operations, and planetary entry, descent, and landing (EDL) phases where precise, real-time positioning is critical.