KEYWORDS: Ranging, Laser systems engineering, Space operations, Optical tracking, Laser applications, Reflectors, Satellites, Space telescopes, Telescopes, Data modeling
The mitigation of orbital debris was addressed in the most recent release of the National Space Policy directing space
faring agencies to pursue technologies that will “mitigate and remove on-orbit debris.” No matter what abatement
technology is developed and deployed, still lacking is the remote sensing infrastructure to locate and track these objects
with adequate precision. We propose using GSFC's ground-based laser ranging facility to provide meter-level or better
ranging precision on optically passive 10-30 cm orbital debris targets with the goal of improving current predictions up
to 85%. The improved location accuracy also has the immediate benefit of reducing costly false alarms in collision
predictions for existing assets.
Access to the requested content is limited to institutions that have purchased or subscribe to SPIE eBooks.
You are receiving this notice because your organization may not have SPIE eBooks access.*
*Shibboleth/Open Athens users─please
sign in
to access your institution's subscriptions.
To obtain this item, you may purchase the complete book in print or electronic format on
SPIE.org.
INSTITUTIONAL Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.
PERSONAL Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.