Challenges associated with optical observations of small Earth-orbiting satellites
Abstract
This presentation will discuss challenges associated with optical observations of Earth-orbiting objects that are at, or near, the limit of observations using terrestrial space surveillance sensors. Although the object size limit of these observations is dependent on albedo, and lighting and viewing conditions, this limit translates to approximately 10 cm objects in low-Earth orbit (LEO), for telescopes that are routinely used either for satellite maintenance or for search programs. Some challenges associated with observing small objects are: 1) to observe these objects not just for statistical purposes, but with enough frequency and accuracy to move them into satellite catalogs 2) to push optical observations to the limit of the state of the art for optical detectors and to provide the capability to routinely observe smaller objects 3) to develop the capability to observe the satellite positions with increased accuracy, since the effect of drag on smaller objects is greater. The 10 cm size limit is interesting, since that is the size of a new class of operational satellites that are now being launched into LEO orbit. For example, on 30 June 2003, five satellites were launched that are cubes, 10 cm on a side. These are objects that in the recent past could easily have been mistaken by ground-based observers as debris, because of their size. It may not be much longer before operational payloads of even smaller size are launched. The presence of objects such as these presents additional challenges. 1) Can these objects be observed routinely enough that they can be accurately cataloged? 2) Can these objects be distinguished from true orbital debris? 3) In the event there are future programs involving active cleanup of orbital debris, are there safeguards to prevent the accidental "cleanup" of small, operational satellites? This presentation will discuss the challenges described above in detail, as well as programs currently under way at the AMOS facility on Maui to address the challenges.
- Publication:
-
35th COSPAR Scientific Assembly
- Pub Date:
- 2004
- Bibcode:
- 2004cosp...35..131K