Multi-Source Measurements Fusion for Distributed Space Probes Based on Factor Graph Optimization

This paper presents a method of multi-source measurements fusion for ranging optimization of distributed space probes. The probes are deployed in a configuration comprising a primary satellite and several secondary satellites in hundred meters from each other. Based on multi-source measurements ranged by the modes of code phase and dual-comb interferometry laser measurements, an algorithm of the factor graph optimization incorporating both inter-satellite relative motion and relative observations is designed for the distributed space probes. The ranging optimization method can improve measurement accuracy and ensure the exactitude for the navigation and positioning of the probes. In simulations, some inter-satellite observation data generated in satellite simulation software. The simulation results demonstrate that the presented method can effectively reduce the uncertainty in distance measurements between the probes. It provides a solution for the problems of the time-frequency inconsistency of multi-source measurements and the cross-precision measurement fusion in distributed space probes.