Jonathan Hutfilz, Space Systems Command
Keywords: Search-based operations, Space Surveillance Telescope, deep space, GEO, electro-optical, telescope, space surveillance network
Abstract:
On March 5 2020, the Space Surveillance Telescope (SST) obtained first light from it new home near Exmouth in Western Australia. Since then, SST, weather permitting, has been viewing the southern hemisphere sky collecting data on bright and dim objects passing within field of view. These incredible collections have launched in tens of thousands of objects never before seen. In addition, SST has found space objects that had been previously lost in public space catalogs as well as discovered dozens of potentially hazardous natural objects. SST’s unique location, combined with its ability to see dim objects enhances the ability of the space surveillance network to improve detection, safety of flight, separation, conjunction assessment, and proximity operations. As the barriers for entry to space lower, more and more actors have gained access. This trend will lead to the emergence of greater congestion and competition. The number of earth-orbiting objects will continue to grow while the size of the objects will decrease through advances in technology, requiring sensors to provide higher sensitivity, resolution, and capacity. SST has inherently shifted from traditional tasked-based operations to search-based operations while the systems unique capability is able to meet these specific requirements for deep space objects. SST marches towards operational acceptance into the space surveillance network. After a rigorous testing regime, SST will provide capabilities improving detection and characterization of space activities.
Date of Conference: September 27-20, 2022
Track: Optical Systems & Instrumentation