Space domain Wide Area Tracking & Characterization (Space-WATCH)
Abstract
The Space domain Wide Area Tracking & Characterization (Space-WATCH) program will enable real-time persistent tracking of objects in low earth orbit (LEO) and provide actionable intelligence on tactical timescales. Space-WATCH will enable detection and tracking of objects orbiting the Earth on much faster timescales than current ground-based sensors are capable of by combining proliferated, on-orbit sensors with automated data fusion. By working with commercial companies operating in LEO to host low-cost sensors on their space platforms, Space-WATCH will employ thousands of sensors on orbit to continuously gather data. Space-WATCH will utilize automated algorithms to process and fuse all the collected data for anomaly detection and false alarm reduction, making the data useful and actionable to ground-based operators. This comprehensive data set of objects in LEO and real-time information on anomalies will greatly increase the accuracy of the Department of Defense's space situational awareness, as well as enable appropriate responses to anomalies, such as maneuvering space assets out of the way of orbital debris. Technology developed under this program will transition to the U.S. Space Force and Space Development Agency.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2025
- Source ID
- 7b3bed1202507940dbe01ae07e67ef6b