NASA | StarTrackers Light the Way

The video tutorial discusses the historical use of starfield patterns by sailors for navigation and explains the advanced technology of star trackers used in NASA missions. These devices, built by Galileo Avionica, are crucial for spacecraft orientation and are used in missions like the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter and Solar Dynamics Observatory. The video also highlights the collaboration between NASA and Galileo Avionica, emphasizing the importance of redundancy in space missions. Finally, it underscores NASA's educational role in providing insights into Earth's environment and space through its missions.

What is the primary function of star trackers in spacecraft?

Describe how the Star Tracker differs from traditional navigation methods used by early sailors.

What are the two NASA missions that utilize star trackers, and where were they built?

Explain the importance of having two star trackers on the LRO and SDO missions.

How do star trackers contribute to our understanding of Earth and space?