A PREDICTION AND TRACKING METHOD FOR SMALL-APERTURE, CONTINUOUS OPTICAL TRACKING OF ARTIFICIAL SATELLITES.
Abstract
Field-proven prediction and tracking techniques are discussed, with their application to a 4-axis mounted 24-inch Cassegrainian telescope. Although the actual tracking performed to date has been for the purpose of photoelectric photometry of satellites, the successful techniques employed are applicable to other optical satellite tracking missions whose requirements include a large-aperture detection capability coupled with precision small-aperture continuous tracking. Emphasis is upon the efficient combination of a skilled computer-observer with inexpensive equipment, a combination which provides a wide range of versatility and flexibility. The tracking method described is, in effect, the author's practical application of a proposal by Kenneth E. Kissell presented at the COSPAR Symposium of Florence, May 1964. This investigation has been conducted in collaboration with Mr. Kissell. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0631451
Entities
People
- Richard C. Vanderburgh
Organizations
- Ohio State University