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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
We will develop an automated precision pulsar timing program at the DSN to provide monthly high SNR pulsar ephemerides in radio wavelength for SExTANT. These ephemerides along with SExTANT measurements in X-ray will be used to obtain position and velocity estimates of the spacecraft. We are also aiming to develop a fully Bayesian approach to spacecraft state estimation, including pulsar colored noise term and the integer cycle ambiguity problem. This method is expected to result in greater accuracy in state estimates and should also allow for cold start scenarios.
We are aiming to position JPL to make a significant and unique set of contributions to NICER: provide precision pulsar timing models via radio observations, and a fully Bayesian state estimation package that would enhance the navigation solutions beyond the SExTANT baseline estimation package.
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