Evaluation method of star sensor's stray light suppression capability through signal-to-noise ratio chain modeling

Abstract

To achieve accurate assessment of star sensors' stray light suppression performance, this study develops a novel evaluation approach through integrating ultimate stellar magnitude detection tests with stray light analysis. The proposed methodology employs stellar vector signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) as a direct metric for quantifying stray light resistance. A mathematical framework connecting SNR, point source transmittance (PST), and stellar brightness parameters is formulated through systematic modeling. Experimental validation confirms the validity of using SNR as an evaluation criterion, demonstrating strong correlation between measured values and theoretical predictions. When the stellar SNR exceeds operational detection thresholds, the sensor demonstrates sufficient stray light suppression capacity for detecting celestial objects up to +5.8Mv magnitude. The developed SNR-based evaluation model enables direct assessment of potential stray light interference during orbital operations, providing effective verification of optical system performance and spatial environment compatibility.