Orbit Determination and Photogrammetry Using Mars-94 Tracking and Images

Abstract

A consistent approach for a combined evaluation of radio tracking data and three-line scanning stereo camera images is presented for use within the Mars-94 mission. Within this project, orbit determination and photogrammetric analysis are carried out with distinct software packages by independent working groups. The proposed approach ensures the proper utilization orbit determination-based trajectory information in the photogrammetric bundle adjustment. Vice versa, it allows the incorporation of photogrammetric image information to improve the orbit determination and support the estimation of Mars science parameters. Focus is given to the combined approach, its mathematical description, and its main advantages.