Target acquisition dynamics with application to the rendezvous radar of the Space Shuttle orbiter

A statistical approach is used in formulating the transition from search to automatic angle tracking for search and tracking radars. The angular separation between the target position and the antenna line of sight following detection is derived as a function of both target and system parameters. Using a simple computer program, the probability density function of the angular separation at the end of the acquisition phase is found as a function of both target and system parameters. The results can then be used to develop specifications for the antenna control servo for established limits on target angular rates so as to obtain a high probability of successful transition from search to automatic angle tracking.