Thomas Schildknecht, Astronomical Institute University of Bern, Jiri Silha, Astronomical Institute University of Bern, Holger Krag, Space Debris Office – ESA/ESOC
Keywords: Attitude modeling, space debris
Abstract:
The currently proposed space debris remediation measures include the active removal of large objects and “just in time” collision avoidance by deviating the objects using, e.g., ground-based lasers. These techniques require precise knowledge of the attitude state and state changes of the target objects. In the former case, e.g. to devise methods to capture the target with a tug spacecraft, in the latter, to precisely propagate the orbits of potential collision partners, as disturbing forces like air drag and solar radiation pressure depend on the attitude of the objects.
Date of Conference: September 19-22, 2017
Track: Space Situational Awareness