Test bench for stellar sensor includes video display showing moving star pattern and computer monitoring sensor output

摘要

The test bench comprises a support (1) for the stellar sensor (2) to be tested, and a video monitor (3) showing a moving portion of the sky. A computer (13) is provided for testing the sensor output during a real time simulation (11) of the satellite in orbit. The test bench comprises a support (1) for the stellar sensor (2) to be tested, and a video monitor (3) and a system (8,9,10,11) for controlling the display on the monitor showing a moving portion of the sky. An optical system (7) forms an image of the screen on the sensitive surface of the stellar sensor (2). A further computer (13) is provided for testing the sensor output. The monitor is controlled by a computer (11) providing a real time simulation (11) of the movement on a predetermined orbit of a satellite equipped with an attitude control system. The system uses a closed loop to examine the signals transmitted by the tested sensor (2).