Differential Interferometry For Spacecraft Navigation

Abstract

Report proposes use of differential very-long-baseline interferometry to measure accurately angular separation, viewed from Earth, of two spacecraft near another planet. One spacecraft would be in orbit around planet on trajectory already determined accurately, relative to planet, by conventional Doppler tracking. Other spacecraft would be approaching planet. Use of differential very-long-baseline interferometry "tie" between two spacecraft and previously determined "tie" between orbiter and planet increases accuracy of navigation of approaching spacecraft relative to planet.