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Compact single-photon LiDAR for satellite laser ranging.
Optics Express
|November 11, 2025
Summary
Researchers developed a compact single-photon LiDAR system for satellite laser ranging (SLR). This innovative system achieves precise ranging for static and dynamic targets, offering new solutions for space geodesy and debris monitoring.
Area of Science:
- Space Geodesy
- LiDAR Technology
- Optical Remote Sensing
Background:
- Satellite laser ranging (SLR) is crucial for satellite orbit determination and Earth gravity field inversion.
- Existing SLR systems face challenges in noise suppression and dynamic target detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a compact single-photon LiDAR system for SLR applications.
- To enhance ranging accuracy and dynamic target detection capabilities.
Main Methods:
- A bistatic configuration was employed for backscattering noise suppression.
- An enhanced scan-tracking technique was utilized for improved dynamic target detection.
- Absolute ranging was achieved using chaotic pulse position modulation (CPPM) and the Hough transform.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated static target absolute ranging up to 8.56 km.
- Achieved dynamic ranging up to 953.89 km with a ranging Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.41 m.
- Estimated theoretical normal point precision within millimeters at high pulse repetition frequencies.
Conclusions:
- The study validates the feasibility of single-photon LiDAR for SLR.
- The developed system offers novel solutions for satellite orbit determination, target identification, attitude sensing, and debris monitoring.
