Lauri K. Newman, NASA Headquarters; Alinda K. Mashiku, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Keywords: conjunction assessment, best practices, space traffic management
Abstract:
A significant increase in the volume and diversity of activity in space means that it is becoming increasingly congested. Emerging commercial ventures such as satellite servicing, in-space manufacturing, and tourism as well as new technologies enabling small satellites and large constellations of satellites present serious challenges for safely and responsibly using space in a stable, sustainable manner. To meet these challenges, the U.S. seeks to improve global awareness of activity in space by publicly sharing flight safety-related information and by coordinating its own on-orbit activity in a safer, more responsible manner. It seeks to bolster stability and reduce current and future operational on-orbit risks so that space is sustained for future generations.
To that end, in December 2020 the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) published a Spacecraft Conjunction Assessment and Collision Avoidance Best Practices Handbook that reflects how NASA currently operates, which has evolved over time. Consideration is given to important topics such as spacecraft and constellation design; spacecraft “trackability;” pre-launch preparation and early launch activities; on-orbit collision avoidance; and automated trajectory guidance and maneuvering.
This paper describes how operators can use the NASA Handbook to assist in developing a robust conjunction assessment operations process, as well as presenting examples of responsible practices for spacecraft Owners/Operators (O/O) to consider for lowering collision risks and operating safely in space (from LEO and beyond) in a stable and sustainable manner. The presentation will also address parts of the Handbook that have proven to be problematic for operators and the studies and analyses the Agency is pursuing to create workable alternatives.
REFERENCE:
NASA Spacecraft Conjunction Assessment and Collision Avoidance Best Practices Handbook, NASA/SP-20205011276, December 2020.
Date of Conference: September 27-20, 2022
Track: Conjunction/RPO