Bright-star Recognition Algorithm and Its Application in Astronomical Azimuth Determination

doi:10.11947/j.AGCS.2015.20130557

Abstract

Abstract: A novel bright-star identification algorithm is presented using the time series of vertical angle and horizontal angle velocity observed by the total station. The algorithm can distinguish planets from the starry background with automatically computing for the horizontal coordinates of the observed target. Based on the investigation of measurement errors, the matching thresholds and the effective matching strategy are given. Tests results with simulated and actual measurements show that the success rate of identification can be up to 100%, which is much higher than the existing algorithm. Then the identification algorithm is applied to the astronomical azimuth determination with the measurements of some bright stars and planets and the resulting precision and accuracy are 1.6" and 2.0", respectively. Finally, it is pointed that multi-star observations can improve the accuracy of the astronomical orientation by effectively removing the impact of errors of station coordinates. The presented orientation method can be extended to cloudy or haze weather when only few visible bright stars can be observed.

Key words: astronomical, azimuth, determination, star identification, unknown bright star

CLC Number:

P228

ZHAN Yinhu, ZHENG Yong, ZHANG Chao, LI Zhuyang, ZHANG Zhongkai. Bright-star Recognition Algorithm and Its Application in Astronomical Azimuth Determination[J]. Acta Geodaetica et Cartographica Sinica, 2015, 44(3): 257-263.

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