Investigation of a Ground-based Optical Observation System for LEO Objects

Abstract

We have examined the possibilities of a ground-based optical observation system for monitoring LEO objects. Simulations and a test observation showed that two longitudinally separate observation sites with arrays of optical sensors can detect many LEO objects 30 cm in size and precisely determine their orbit. The proposed optical survey system may complement or replace the current radar observation system for LEO objects monitoring in the near future.

Detection of LEO Objects Using CMOS Sensor

“…Two tracking sites which are placed to both polar regions are needed to maintain orbital elements of those objects. The detail of the system is described in Yanagisawa et al 18) As discussed in the section 4, with these optical settings, about 15-25% of detected LEO objects will be un-cataloged. This will help to reduce the risk of collisions between those objects and active satellites.…”