A New Approach to Computing Information in Measurements of Non-resolved Space Objects by the Falcon Telescope Network
Abstract
Space situational awareness (SSA) depends on detection, tracking and characterization of resident space objects. One such system with this capability that is coming online is the Falcon Telescope Network, a network of telescopes dispersed across the state of Colorado as well as around the world. An important capability of the network will be simultaneous observations of a target from multiple sites. Telescopes located in Colorado will enable a study of fast moving low-earth-orbiting targets, while stations around the world will enable study of higher orbiting targets such as those in Molniya and geosynchronous orbits. Understanding how to exploit this capability to complete tasks related to SSA is analyzed using the framework of statistical information theory. Specific tasks considered include estimating the surface material composition of targets and their intrinsic spin rate. The amount of information in the measurements is computed using simulations of target observations from single and multiple sites in the network. How this approach will lead to optimal use of the network when performing these SSA tasks is presented.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 23, 2014
- Accession Number
- AD1015438
Entities
People
- D. Hope
Organizations
- United States Air Force Academy