Asynchronous Star-Tracker for Real-Time, High-Spin Attitude Control

As a response to this solicitation, Alphacore Inc. is proposing a novel star-tracker architecture that leverages Alphacore’s patent-pending in-house developed radiation hardened event-based sensor (EBS), offering significant advantages in handling high angular rates crucial for applications encountering high-spin scenarios.It incorporates Alphacore’s high-speed image sensor and a powerful processor, enabling attitude computation through advanced algorithms that efficiently process streams of data. EBS introduces a groundbreaking imaging approach for space, potentially solving numerous issues faced by traditional star tracker systems.EBS only record changes in the scene, in a μs temporal resolution and asynchronously; with pixels operating independently. Alphacore’s EBS offer several unique advantages that make it particularly well-suited for space applications addressing Space operations’ need for speed,Asynchronous Updates providing over 10,000 fps (equivalent),High Dynamic Range for Varied Space Lighting Conditions in space (over 120 db), Lower Latency (order of μs),Reduced Data Volume (shown to be 100x compared to conventional),Robustness to Motion Blur, Payload Limited Power Consumption (<100mW is typical) and Simplified Spacecraft System Design.In Phase I, Alphacore plans to create a “digital twin” of the system which will be a virtual representation of the physical system (by detailed modeling of each module), that is designed to simulate performance and behavior. and help aid in design of development of the system. The modules will consist of (1) Input Star Pattern Generation (2) Baffle/Stray light suppression (3) Optics (4) Image Sensor; EBS and other image sensors(5) Algorithm (6) On-board real-time computation (FPGA/ GPU/CPU) and (7) Mechanical. We will conduct a comprehensive trade-space study and prototype optimization. As a final step, lab-based proof-of-concept tests using COTS components will be conducted – which will also be used to test the model.

NASA has used star trackers in various space missions including the Hubble Space Telescope, Chandra X-ray Observatory, Kepler Space Telescope, Mars Rovers, Juno, New Horizons, OSIRIS-Rex, and the James Webb Space Telescope. These examples highlight the versatile use of star trackers across different types of NASA missions, demonstrating their importance in ensuring accurate spacecraft orientation, navigation, and data collection. The proposed rad-hard, event-based star tracker offers unparalleled advantages in terms of high pointing accuracy and performance at high spin rates, with a volume as small as 0.2U making it an ideal choice for missions in harsh space environments. For Cubesats platforms, the following applications could be listed: The Artemis Program CubeSats support lunar exploration with precise navigation provided by the tracker. Earth Venture Mission CubeSats and SWOT (Surface Water and Ocean Topography) Accompanying CubeSats benefit from enhanced geolocation for Earth observation. Astrophysics SmallSat Missions, successors to projects like the Hubble, rely on the tracker for accurate star mapping and deep-space imaging. Small satellites on future missions akin to MAVEN will find the tracker essential for studying planetary atmospheres. Technology Demonstration Missions, which test innovations like solar sail propulsion and advanced communication systems, depend on the tracker for precise attitude control. Lastly, Interplanetary SmallSat Explorers on missions to asteroids, comets, or the outer planets require the tracker for accurate navigation and instrument alignment.Its ability to operate efficiently during "lost in space" scenarios where conventional orientation methods fail adds a significant reliability factor, appealing to agencies engaged in deep space exploration, satellite deployment, and space research. The expansion of space exploration and satellite services, driven by both governmental and private ventures worldwide, underscores the critical demand for sophisticated navigation technologies. Star trackers offer unparalleled precision in attitude determination essential for a wide array of space missions. For Low Earth Orbit (LEO) communications constellations, star trackers provide the orientation accuracy to ensure seamless network connectivity, a backbone for global communication services. For Earth observing satellites, these devices are indispensable in achieving the precision required for monitoring environmental changes, urban development, and disaster management from space. Space Situational Awareness (SSA) platforms leverage star trackers to accurately track and catalog the myriad of objects orbiting the Earth, from operational satellites to space debris, ensuring safe navigation and avoiding potential collisions in the increasingly crowded space environment. The compact and efficient design of star trackers makes them ideal for CubeSat projects aimed at scientific research. These small satellites, often developed by academic institutions and research organizations, benefit from the reliable orientation data provided by star trackers, enabling them to conduct advanced studies in fields ranging from astrophysics to Earth sciences The precision offered by star trackers is vital for the complex maneuvers involved in autonomous rendezvous and docking operations, a critical component for the assembly of space infrastructures and in-orbit servicing missions. This is essential for the future of space exploration, including the construction of lunar gateways, space stations, and the deployment of satellite constellations. The versatility and reliability of star trackers will continue to be indispensable across these diverse applications, highlighting their significance in the broader context of global space exploration and satellite deployment efforts.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.