Modeling, simulation, testing, and verification of the Orbital Express Autonomous Rendezvous and Capture Sensor System (ARCSS)

The Orbital Express Autonomous Rendezvous and Capture Sensor System (ARCSS) ALONG WITH ITS Vision-based Software for Track, Attitude and Ranging (Vis-STAR) provided relative target position and attitude measurements for guidance and relative navigation during autonomous vehicle proximity operations. The use of computer and physical models during simulation, ground testing and verification of ARCSS imaging camera and software performance prior to and during on-orbit operations is discussed.