Field test results for a CID star tracker

A first generation solid state Charge-Injection Device (CID) star tracker was developed by Ball Aerospace Corporation and was field tested by the Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) in November 1991. As this instrument has nonflight history, the field tests were conducted with the purpose of characterizing the expected operational performance of the tracker. The engineering development model of this instrument was attached to a computer-guided telescope at the Air Force Maui Optical Site (AMOS) on Mt. Haleakala in Hawaii. This site was chosen because of its excellent atmospheric and dark sky conditions. Static and dynamic tests were conducted to investigate the star tracker's performance in a variety of areas, including: (1) real time acquisition and tracking of stars, (2) accuracy and dynamic range of stellar magnitude measurements, (3) interference from background light and near neighbor stars, and (4) accuracy of position measurements. In addition to reporting the results of these successful field tests, problems experienced by the tracker will be discussed.