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Simulation modelling of the observability of low Earth orbit (LEO) objects was performed using optical surveillance facilities depending on their geographic location and time of year. Orbital data for LEO objects from the open-access catalogue of the near-Earth space objects of the US Combined Space Operations Center (CSpOC) were taken as the initial data for the simulation. The simulation results revealed a complex relationship between the pattern of observability of a LEO object, its orbital parameters and location of the optical surveillance facility, in particular, for Sun-synchronous orbits (SSO) and observing facilities located near the equator. We also discuss variations in the frequency of passes of LEO objects into the field of view (FOV) and in the duration of their observation while passing through the FOV for optical surveillance facilities at three alternative locations. The obtained results and modelling techniques can be further used in the location planning of new optical observing facilities.

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The article describes the successes and challenges of the Ukrainian network of optical stations (UMOS) in recent years in the field of astrometric observations of artificial space objects both in low-Earth orbit (LEO) and geostationary Earth orbit (GEO). UMOS was established in 2012 as a joint partnership of organizations interested in satellite observations for scientific purposes and practical near Earth space monitoring. The main purpose of the UMOS has been (and still is) to combine scientific and technical means with regular optical (positional and / or non-positional) observation. The short list of equipment of the UMOS members are given in the tables. The programs for observations, used methods and obtained results are described in the paper. In conclusion, the advantages of observations of artificial space objects by means of a network are summarized. The experience of UMOS and main results obtained by UMOS can be considered as the first step to create the SSA system of Ukraine.