Newsroom
Astrix NS-IMU
High-Performance Space IMU
SPACE navigation starts with RELIABLE INERTIAL DATA
As spacecraft become increasingly autonomous, they require accurate and continuous motion measurements to perform complex operations such as orbital maneuvers, rendezvous and docking, and planetary exploration.
An Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) combines gyroscopes and accelerometers to provide the inertial data required by Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) systems for precise trajectory and motion estimation, even when external navigation references are unavailable
The first ITAR-free Space IMU
The Astrix NS-IMU is a compact, radiation-tolerant Inertial Measurement Unit combining Exail's Fiber-Optic Gyroscope technology with high-accuracy accelerometers.
Built on Exail's proven Fiber-Optic Gyroscope expertise and derived from the Astrix NS architecture, it brings proven inertial technology into a new-generation IMU designed for demanding New Space missions. It provides precise measurements of angular motion and linear acceleration for advanced Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) systems.
Compact, radiation-tolerant and optimized for low SWaP requirements, the Astrix NS-IMU delivers high-end inertial performance for the next generation of space missions, from orbital maneuvers and docking to planetary exploration and Entry, Descent and Landing (EDL).
Developed through the EURISA Horizon 2020 programme
The Astrix NS-IMU originates from the EURISA project, funded by the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme. The project aimed to develop a European high-performance, ITAR-free inertial measurement solution dedicated to the growing needs of New Space missions. Through this programme, the Astrix NS-IMU was successfully developed and matured to Technology Readiness Level 6 (TRL 6).
Since then, Exail has continued the qualification roadmap with the support of the European Space Agency (ESA), advancing the Astrix NS-IMU towards Technology Readiness Level 9 (TRL 9) for operational space missions
HIGH-PERFORMANCE INERTIAL SOLUTION for space missions
The Astrix NS-IMU is designed to support spacecraft requiring accurate and reliable motion estimation throughout their mission lifetime.
Key features
Developed without ITAR restrictions, the Astrix NS-IMU enables easier international integration and supports global space mission deployment.
Designed for serial production, the Astrix NS-IMU supports short lead times and high production volumes to meet the growing demand of New Space programs.
Building on the Astrix NS architecture, the Astrix NS-IMU benefits from Exail's experience in developing high-performance space inertial solutions. It brings this technological heritage into a new-generation IMU designed for the evolving needs of New Space missions.
Designed for harsh space environments, the Astrix NS-IMU supports long-duration missions while maintaining high inertial performance
With compact dimensions, low mass and low power consumption, the Astrix NS-IMU is optimized for New Space platforms where size, weight and power constraints are critical.
Leveraging Exail's proven Fiber-Optic Gyroscope technology, with in-house manufacturing of both optical fiber and accelerometers, the Astrix NS-IMU provides a complete inertial measurement solution with low noise, excellent bias stability and long-term reliability.
Enabling autonomous space operations
Orbital maneuvers
The Astrix NS-IMU supports precise maneuver execution and post-maneuver performance assessment by providing reliable motion measurements to the spacecraft GNC system.
Autonomous docking
The Astrix NS-IMU provides stable inertial data required for autonomous guidance systems during critical spacecraft proximity operations.
Rover navigation
The Astrix NS-IMU provides accurate dead-reckoning capabilities by measuring vehicle motion when external navigation references (eg: GNSS) are unavailable.
Entry, Descent and Landing (EDL)
During atmospheric entry, descent and landing, the Astrix NS-IMU supports accurate trajectory estimation when external navigation signals cannot be used.
Delta-V monitoring
The Astrix NS-IMU provides precise inertial measurements to support propulsion performance analysis and maneuver validation.
Specifications
 Astrix NS-IMU |
|
|---|---|
|
ARW |
0.005 °/√h |
|
Bias stability over 1h (steady temperature) |
0.005∘/h |
|
Bias stability end of life (all effects included) |
0.2 °/h |
|
Measurement Range (full performances) |
60∘/s qualified (higher on demand) |
|
Scale factor stability after @ 3σ (all effect included) |
< 200 ppm |
|
Scale factor linearity @ 3σ |
200 ppm |
|
Mass / Volume |
< 1.95 kg / 130 x 130 x 117 mm |
|
Power Consumption |
< 15W |
|
Start-up Time |
< 1 s for relevant data access |
| Datasheet |
Why choose a Fiber-Optic Space IMU?
Space missions require inertial sensors capable of maintaining high accuracy, stability and reliability throughout demanding operational environments. Fiber-Optic Gyroscope (FOG) technology provides the performance and robustness required for long-duration and safety-critical missions.
Compared with MEMS-based solutions, Fiber-Optic Gyroscope technology provides:
Very low drift over time enables accurate navigation and trajectory estimation throughout the mission lifetime.
Low noise and excellent bias stability provide precise inertial data for advanced Guidance, Navigation and Control (GNC) systems.
The passive optical design of FOG technology ensures robust operation and long-term durability in demanding space environments.
Stable performance across operating conditions supports precise spacecraft maneuvering and autonomous navigation.
Fiber-Optic technology is well suited for missions requiring reliable performance in radiation environments, from LEO to deep-space applications.
FAQ
A gyroscope measures angular velocity only, while an IMU combines gyroscopes and accelerometers to measure both rotational and linear motion. This enables complete inertial navigation and trajectory estimation.
An IMU provides continuous navigation data when external references such as GNSS, optical navigation or ground-based tracking are unavailable or insufficient.
Fiber-Optic Gyroscope technology offers superior long-term stability and lower drift, making it better suited for demanding space missions requiring high navigation accuracy.
The Astrix NS-IMU is derived from the Astrix NS architecture and benefits from Exail's long-standing expertise in Fiber-Optic Gyroscope technology for space applications.
Downloads
Download all filesDatasheet Astrix NS-IMU
pdf
