Evaluation of the solar disk sextant concept

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Abstract
In this paper we evaluate the viability of the solar disk sextant concept and derive the optimum parameters required to carry out the solar variability studies which are the mission objectives. The experimental environment is first discussed, followed by the application of the finite Fourier transform definition (FFTD) to the detector array data. The requirements on the optical system are studied next. A computer program was carried out simulating solar edge data and FFTD. From this study we conclude that the required accuracy of measurement may be reached using currently available detector array technology, a focal ratio of the optical system in excess of 90, and an entrance aperture of 22 cm. The guidance error must be small enough to require no more than a correction rate of 0.1 sec of arc/sec. All these conditions are well within current technology.