Performance Characteristics of a Retroreflector Array Optimized for LEO Spacecraft

Abstract

This report presents a predicted link analysis for the operational characteristics of a retroreflector array designed, built, and space-qualified by the Naval Research Laboratory for Low Earth Orbiting spacecraft. The predictions rest on the combination of numerical analysis and direct laboratory measurements of the retroreflector array's optical properties. The report also describes the assumptions we used for link analysis as they pertain to passes over Midway Research Center. The report includes a description and photo of the array itself, as well as the test and levels used to space qualify the array.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 31, 1997
Accession Number
ADA334920

Entities

People

  • G. Charmaine Gilbreath
  • James A. Georges Iii
  • Peter B. Rolsma
  • Robert B. Patterson
  • Robert Kessel

Organizations

  • United States Naval Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Artificial Satellites
  • Coordinate Systems
  • Detection
  • Detectors
  • Diffraction
  • Geometry
  • Link Analysis
  • Low Earth Orbits
  • Low Elevation
  • Measurement
  • Mechanical Properties
  • Numerical Analysis
  • Optical Properties
  • Optics
  • Range Finding
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft

Readers

  • Optical Physics and Photonics.
  • Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) Technology.
  • Theoretical Analysis.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Satellites