Orbital Trajectory Estimation using Earth's Magnetic Field

On-orbit trajectory estimation is a critical step for small satellites integrating propulsion systems. Although GPS is the most accurate method of estimation, power consumption and physical size limit universal integration. Trajectory estimation using Earth's magnetic field is less robust but cost effective, requiring only a three-axis magnetometer. Much of the work in this field centers around unscented or extended Kalman filters; this work proposes a particle filter to handle the non-linearities in the measurement and process model. Data from the MAGSAT mission is analyzed using the algorithm. Future work will integrate thrust into the model for full state feedback in a propulsive burn.