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APPARILLO: a fully operational and autonomous staring system for LEO debris detection
1DLR, Institute of Technical Physics, Pfaffenwaldring 38-40, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany.
CEAS Space Journal
|November 15, 2021
Summary
A new passive optical staring system autonomously detects and tracks unknown space debris in low Earth orbit (LEO). This system enables precise orbit determination, crucial for collision avoidance and safe spacecraft operation.
Area of Science:
- Space Surveillance and Tracking
- Orbital Mechanics
- Astrodynamics
Background:
- Safe operation of active spacecraft necessitates continuous monitoring of space debris to prevent collisions.
- Low Earth Orbit (LEO) presents elevated collision risks due to the high density of orbital debris.
- Accurate a priori orbit information is essential for laser ranging systems used in debris tracking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a passive optical staring system for autonomous detection and tracking of unknown orbital objects in LEO.
- To enable 24/7 operation for continuous sky observation and data acquisition.
- To provide initial orbit determination data for laser tracking systems.
Main Methods:
- A weather-sealed, autonomous passive optical staring system was designed and deployed.
- A wide-angle imaging system with a 10° field of view and an astronomical CCD camera was utilized for sky observation.
- The system automatically processes images, saving 2D angular measurements as equatorial coordinates in TDM standard.
Main Results:
- The system demonstrated the capability to monitor and process multiple passing objects simultaneously.
- Detection of up to 36 objects per hour during twilight campaigns was achieved.
- High detection efficiencies for LEO objects larger than 1 m³ were observed, with detection of objects as small as 0.1 m³.
Conclusions:
- The developed passive optical staring system is effective for autonomous detection and tracking of LEO space debris.
- The system provides precise angular measurements (approx. 0.05°) suitable for initial orbit determination.
- This technology enhances space situational awareness and contributes to safer spacecraft operations.
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