Justin Spurbeck, The University of Texas at Austin; Moriba Jah, The University of Texas at Austin; Daniel Kucharski, Space Environment Research Centre; James Bennett, EOS Space Systems; James Webb, EOS Space Systems Pty Ltd
Keywords: Photoacoustic sensing, resident space object characterization, maneuver detection and estimation, astrodynamics, space situational awareness
Abstract:
Current active satellite maneuver detection techniques have the ability to detect maneuvers as quickly as fifteen minutes post maneuver for large delta-v if coupled with angles only optical tracking. Medium to small magnitude burn detection times range from 6-24 hours or more. Small magnitude burns may be indistinguishable from natural perturbative effects if passive techniques are employed. Utilizing a photoacoustic signature detection scheme would allow for near real time maneuver detection and spacecraft parameter estimation. We define the acquisition of high rate photometry data as photoacoustic sensing because the data can be played back as an acoustic signal. Studying the operational frequency spectra, profile, and aural perception of an active satellite event such as a thruster fire or any on-board component activation will provide unique signature identifiers that support Resident Space Object (RSO) characterization efforts. A thruster fire induces vibrations in a satellite body which then modulate incident rays of light. If the reflected photon flux is sampled at a sufficient rate, the change in light intensity due to the propulsive event can be detected. Sensing vibrational mode changes allows for a direct timestamp of thruster fire events and thus makes possible the near real time estimation of spacecraft delta-v and maneuver type if coupled with active observations immediately post maneuver. This research also investigates the estimation of other impulse related spacecraft parameters such as mass, specific impulse, and mass flow rate using impulse-momentum and energy methods.
Date of Conference: September 11-14, 2018
Track: Non-Resolved Object Characterization