In this paper, a star sensor tracking method without a star library based on the angular distance chain algorithm is proposed to solve the problem that traditional star sensors rely on a fixed star library and need to be configured to work with multiple units in the tracking mode. This method achieves star map matching by dynamically generating angular distance chains, avoiding the dependence on the global star library. Experiments show that the recognition time of the algorithm in the tracking mode is reduced to milliseconds, and the maximum pose determination error is no more than 0.035°, which proves its effectiveness and reliability. The study provides key technical support for the development of low-cost and lightweight star sensors that are suitable for scenarios such as deep space exploration and near-Earth satellite clusters.

Keywords: angular distance chain algorithm, star sensor without star library, star map recognition, tracking mode, orientation, dynamic matching, deep space exploration