Sun Sensor Performance in Earth's Shadow

Click For Summary
A sun sensor typically detects sunlight to help determine a satellite's orientation in space. When a satellite is in Earth's shadow, the sun sensor will not function effectively since it relies on direct sunlight. The attitude determination system often combines data from both a sun sensor and a magnetometer to establish the satellite's orientation. If the sun sensor is inactive, the system may struggle to accurately determine the satellite's attitude. Understanding the construction and orientation of the sun sensor is crucial for assessing its performance in shadow conditions.
bookimal
Messages
2
Reaction score
0
Hi,

Will a sun sensor work if the satellite is in the Earth's shadow?

thanks!
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
Please, just think just a little bit on this.
 
I think it won't work..

but I'm reading things that says the attitude determining system uses a magnetometer and a sun sensor, and don't you need 2 sensors to work out the attitude? if the sun sensor doesn't work then it won't know the attitude..
 
Bookimal, first off... Welcome to PF.
As regards your posts—I'm really sorry to say that they are totally incomprehensible to me. I have no idea what you're talking about.
 
bookimal said:
I think it won't work..

but I'm reading things that says the attitude determining system uses a magnetometer and a sun sensor, and don't you need 2 sensors to work out the attitude? if the sun sensor doesn't work then it won't know the attitude..

I'm not being sarcastic in any way, but try this. Think of your original question and then ask yourself the more analytical/in depth questions of:
1. Is the sun sensor sensing light or heat (how is it constructed/designed).
2. Is the sun sensor aimed at the sun itself or sensing what is reflected off of the Earth (what's it's orientation, what is it aimed at).
 
Can any1 tell me what a sun sensor is??
 

Thread 'UV filter for home central heating?'

Had my central air system checked when it sortta wasn't working. I guess I hadn't replaced the filter. Guy suggested I might want to get a UV filter accessory. He said it would "kill bugs and particulates". I know UV can kill the former, not sure how he thinks it's gonna murder the latter. Now I'm finding out there's more than one type of UV filter: one for the air flow and one for the coil. He was suggesting we might get one for the air flow, but now we'll have to change the bulb...
View full post »

Similar threads

Tire pressure Sensor Troubleshooting
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
How best to install a pressure sensor inside a pipe?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Undergrad Speed of the umbra during eclipse vs rate of the Earth's rotation
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
High School Can a Planet Have a Moon that Never Casts a Shadow?
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
3K
Undergrad Could the Sun burn an image sensor of a star tracker in space?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Sensors for checking whether there is any dirt on the floor
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Automotive Automotive MAF sensor vs temperature
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
5K
I need help, please, designing a pool sensor for breaking . . .
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
560
MHB How Do Shadows and Sun Angles Relate to Tree Height?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
1K
Underwater piezoelectric sensor array receive sensitivity
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
711