Optical Detection of Space Debris Using a Large Achromatic Coronagraph

Abstract

The threat of space debris seems to increase steadily, accordingly, new methods of detection are need. We present a theoretical approach of this problem, assuming the use of a new generation large achromatic ground based coronagraph. Few interesting results are presented including the estimation of the probability of being able to systematically observe small size space debris in a large range of altitudes. Keywords: include: Space debris; Detection; New advanced coronagraph; Sky brightness.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 1988
Accession Number
ADA211362

Entities

People

  • C. Nitschelm
  • S. Koutchmy

Organizations

  • Air Force Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Achromatic
  • Altitude
  • Atmospheric Refraction
  • Brightness
  • Debris
  • Detection
  • Detectors
  • Elevation
  • Focal Planes
  • Ground Based
  • High Altitude
  • High Resolution
  • Low Altitude
  • Optical Detection
  • Space Debris
  • Space Sciences
  • Specular Reflection

Readers

  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.
  • Theoretical Analysis.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris
  • Space - Space Objects