Kenneth Keppler, Air Force Research Laboratory – Directed Energy Directorate; Michael Albert, Air Force Research Laboratory – Directed Energy Directorate; Paul LeVan, Air Force Research Laboratory – Directed Energy Directorate; Earl Spillar, Air Force Research Laboratory – Directed Energy Directorate; Stephen Lyke, Integrity Applications Inc; Jeff Houchard, Integrity Applications Inc; Isaiah Marquez, AEgis Technology Group; Chad Cogburn, AEgis Technology Group
Keywords: Wide-Eye, Narrow-Eye, networked telescopes
Abstract:
In an effort to achieve timelier indications of anomalous object behaviors in geosynchronous earth orbit, a Planning Capability Concept (PCC) for a Wide Eye-Narrow Eye (WE-NE) telescope network has been established. The PCC addresses the problem of providing continuous and operationally robust, layered and cost-effective, Space Situational Awareness (SSA) that is focused on monitoring deep space for anomalous behaviors. It does this by first detecting the anomalies with wide field of regard systems, and then providing reliable handovers for detailed observational follow-up by larger aperture assets. WENESSA will explore the added value of such a system to the existing space surveillance network. The study will assess and quantify the degree to which the PCC completely fulfills, or improves or augments, these deep space knowledge deficiencies relative to current operational systems.
In order to improve organic simulation capabilities, we will explore options for the federation of diverse community simulation approaches to evaluate the efficiencies offered by a network of small and larger aperture, ground-based telescopes. Existing Space Modeling and Simulation (M&S) tools designed for evaluating WENESSA-like problems will be taken into consideration as we proceed in defining and developing the tools needed to perform this study, leading to the creation of a unified Space M&S environment for the rapid assessment of new capabilities. The primary goal of this effort is to perform a Military Utility Assessment (MUA) of the WE-NE concept. The assessment will explore the mission utility of various WE-NE concepts in discovering deep space anomalies in concert with the Space Surveillance Network (SSN). The secondary goal is to generate an enduring M&S environment to explore the military utility of future proposed concepts. Ultimately, our validated simulation framework would support the inclusion of other ground- and space-based SSA assets through integrated analysis. Options will be explored using at least two competing simulation capabilities, but emphasis will be placed on reasoned analyses as supported by the simulations.
Date of Conference: September 11-14, 2018
Track: Poster