Performance of Ground-Based Infrared Detectors for Acquisition of Satellites
Abstract
The feasibility of acquiring satellites from the ground by using infrared focal-plane-array detectors is analyzed. The orbits of the satellites are assumed to be known to within a position uncertainty of + or - 50 km. Effects of the atmosphere have been modeled by the LOWTRAN7 code. Properties of five different available detectors have been inserted in the mathematical model. A telescope aperture of 60 cm (approx. 24 inches) is assumed in the numerical evaluations. Results are presented in graphs showing the region of space within which each candidate detector array can sense a satellite of a given infrared signature. The PtSi array can sense a medium-sized satellite in low earth orbit. A small, low-orbit satellite can be sensed at a low elevation by the HgCdTe array. That same array could also sense a medium-sized satellite at a 10,000-km altitude. Results for the InSb, Si:Ga, and IrSi arrays fall between these extremes.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 13, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA243247
Entities
People
- David R. Hearn
Organizations
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology