A satellite anemometer

Abstract

We present the conceptual design of an instrument that can provide a continuous analog measure of the pitch and yaw angles of a low altitude satellite in the frame of the neutral atmosphere. The device, which uses pressure sensor orientation to provide its signal, can function in an attitude control loop and/or be used to measure atmospheric winds or wave motions. Any arbitrary angle of attack (pitch and yaw) less than +/- 45 deg can be selected for a heading. The sensitivity of the device is 0.1 deg but this would be limited by low ambient pressure at high altitudes and by multiple particle collisions in and below the slip flow region. The development of a prototype flight unit is in progress.