Initial Detection of Low Earth Orbit Objects through Passive Optical Wide Angle Imaging Systems

Abstract

For surveillance of the low Earth orbit (LEO) population the orbits of resident space objects (active satellites or space debris) has to be known and cataloged. A possible solution for initial detection is the passive optical observation through wide-angle imaging systems with large fields of view (FOV). Based on measurements of these systems a short-time prediction of the object’s trajectory can be determined which is sufficiently accurate to recapture it with a high resolution telescope during the pass of the object. This paper presents the “Stare and Chase” wide-angle system for initial LEO object detection and determination developed by the German Aerospace Center (DLR) at the Satellite-Laser-Ranging station at the Uhlandshöhe in Stuttgart. The performance of the “staring” camera is shown based on the simulation tool PROOF by ESA and compared with real measurements. Finally the recapture of space debris without prior information is presented.