Magnetic Field Satellite (MAGSAT) Spacecraft Vector Magnetometer Calibration

Sanford W. Hinkal

doi:10.1117/12.959469

31 December 1980 Magnetic Field Satellite (MAGSAT) Spacecraft Vector Magnetometer Calibration

Sanford W. Hinkal

Proceedings Volume 0251, Optical Alignment I; (1980) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.959469
Event: 24th Annual Technical Symposium, 1980, San Diego, United States

Abstract

The low-flying MAGSAT spacecraft, launched October 30, 1979, included a Vector Magnetometer to accurately map the magnitude and direction of the magnetic field of the Earth. Calibration of the magnetometer included arc-second precision determination of the relative orientations of the three sensor axes in a coordinate system defined by optical references. This determination began with laboratory measurements of the relative alignments of optical components mounted with the magnetometer. The actual calibration procedure then consisted basically of accurate and repeatable positioning of the Vector Magnetometer within a unique magnetic test facility which nulls the earth's magnetic field, then generates magnetic fields of various orientations and strengths. Analysis of the magnetometer sensor outputs together with the position and alignment data then gave the axes orientations. We used precision theodolites and methods re-lated to surveying techniques to achieve the accurate positioning and optical component alignment measurements. The final calibration accuracy exceeded results previously achieved in the facility.

Citation Download Citation

Sanford W. Hinkal "Magnetic Field Satellite (MAGSAT) Spacecraft Vector Magnetometer Calibration", Proc. SPIE 0251, Optical Alignment I, (31 December 1980); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.959469

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available