Navigation & Inertial Sensing

Strategic Grade

CIRUS & CIRUS-EX Compact Inertial Reference Unit (IRU) for Space

Cost-Effective, Next-Generation, Strategic-Grade Fiber Optic Gyros

Leveraging over sixty years of experience and proven performance in systems deployed in space, the Compact Inertial Reference Unit for Space (CIRUS) is designed and qualified as the next-generation product of our heritage system. The CIRUS and CIRUS-EX rate sensors deliver two different strategic grades of performance combined with the benefits of a compact, low-cost system in an integral chassis.

Both CIRUS and CIRUS-EX systems feature four Fiber Optic Gyro (FOG) sensors in a fully redundant configuration for spacecraft attitude control, supporting DoD, NASA and commercial missions. The CIRUS and CIRUS-EX are our next generation of IRUs that build on our legacy as the premier supplier of mission-critical precision pointing and navigation systems since the early days of the U.S. space program.

Features

  • Two performance grades with lowest ARW <100 μ°/√hr
  • Four gyros and dual A/B electronics provide optimal redundancy for enhanced mission success
  • Dual-redundant serial interfaces (MIL-STD-1553 and RS-422) to permit flexible I/O rates
  • High-reliability Class S and Class K rad-hard electronics
  • Each sensor is individually power-selectable providing ultimate flexibility for the end user
  • User-selectable thermal set points permit optimal operation over changing mission environments
  • User-selectable capability to execute “on-station” commands for optimal situational awareness
  • Conductive or radiative vehicle-mount options
  • Telemetry format can be customized for any specific user interface

Applications

The CIRUS & CIRUS-EX are Uniquely Qualified for:

  • Spacecraft attitude control
  • Precision pointing and navigation