Star sensor specification standard

In recent years there have been rapid developments in star tracker technology, in particular with great increases in the level of sensor autonomy and the associated capabilities. The variety of sensors now available, combined with the complex on-board algorithms, has led in general to disparate and manufacturer-specific sets of performance specifications, making it difficult or impossible to compare sensors. A standard has now been prepared, covering areas such as nomenclature, definitions, performance metrics etc., for the performance specification of Star Sensors. This will allow consistent description of, and direct comparison between, the performance of devices from differing manufacturers. The approach taken in the standard is, as far as possible, consistent with the content of the ESA Pointing Error Handbook [1]. The formal definitions provided are augmented with specific examples of manufacturer´s data sheets and user specifications in order to aid application of the standard in the industrial context.