Sun Sensor Performance in Earth's Shadow

[bookimal]

Hi,

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

thanks!

 

[D H]

Please, just think just a little bit on this.

 

[bookimal]

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..

 

[Danger]

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.

 

[Francis M]

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).

 

[harpreet singh]

Can any1 tell me what a sun sensor is??