Zachary Watson, HartSCI LLC; Michael Hart, HartSCI LLC; Mark Milton, HartSCI LLC; Johanan Codona, HartSCI, LLC; Wellesley Pereira, AFRL/RV
Keywords: Acoustic Imaging, SSA, Novel Instrumentation
Abstract:
Satellites in both LEO and GEO experience time-dependent stresses through various processes such as thermal shock eclipse events, the derotation of antennae and solar panels, and orbit maneuvers. These impulses induce mechanical vibrations in the satellite structure. Intensity modulations induced by the vibrations may be captured by fast photodetection. Our specific approach to this acoustic imaging modality relies on the change in the degree of linear polarization in the reflected light from a satellite, exploiting the observable changes in polarization that are induced by movements of the satellites outer surfaces. The polarization signal has the advantage that it is less susceptible to atmospheric scintillation and other common-mode brightness fluctuations than raw intensity variations. We describe recent work to characterize the unique acoustic signatures of resident space objects. We note that the technique may readily be extended to downward and lateral looking terrestrial applications.
Date of Conference: September 11-14, 2018
Track: Poster