Orbit determination by means of Kalman filter using /spl Delta/VLBI data

An approach for the precise orbit determination technique, which is applicable to deep-space missions, is presented, instead of the conventional orbit determination system using RARR (range and range-rate) data. In this approach, /spl Delta/VLBI (delta very long base-line interferometry) data are employed together with supplemental range data and are processed by an extended Kalman filter. This technique is applied to a typical Martian mission using simulation data and significant enhancement of precision in the orbit determination is demonstrated, compared to the conventional RARR method.