A ring laser gyro based navigator for space launch vehicle guidance

The existing guidance and navigation system for the Centaur upper stage launch vehicle is being replaced with a single-package inertial navigation unit (INU) that includes updated electronics and inertial sensors in a strapped-down mechanization. The INU was adapted from an existing system based on a ring laser gyro (RLG) that was selected for its performance and adaptability to the space application. Adaptations were required to accommodate: space launch requirements, including qualification in accordance with MIL-STD-1540B; mission accuracies/performance requirements; and vehicle requirements. The adapted RLG INU features a proven electronic design, a single package (which includes inertial measurement and flight control subsystems), a large inertial sensor production base, and existing test facilities