Electrostatic accelerometer with bias rejection for deep space gravitation tests

TL;DR

This paper presents an electrostatic accelerometer with bias rejection designed for deep space gravitation tests, enhancing spacecraft trajectory accuracy by measuring non-gravitational accelerations.

Contribution

It introduces a novel bias-rejecting electrostatic accelerometer for precise onboard acceleration measurements in deep space missions.

Findings

Improved accuracy in measuring non-gravitational accelerations.

Enhanced capability for testing gravitation in the Solar System.

Potential for more precise spacecraft trajectory determination.

Abstract

The trajectory of an interplanetary spacecraft can be used to test gravitation in the Solar System. Its determination relies on radio tracking and is limited by the uncertainty on the spacecraft non-gravitational acceleration. The addition of an accelerometer on board provides another observable which measures the departure of the probe from geodesic motion. Such a concept has been proposed for the OSS mission which embarks the Gravity Advanced Package. This instrument, which is the focus of this article, is designed to make unbiased acceleration measurements.