Harrison Krantz, Applied Research Associates; Jeffrey Bloch, Applied Research Associates; Nathaniel Serda, Applied Research Associates; Don Flechtner, Applied Research Associates; Peter McMahon-Crabtree, Air Force Research Laboratory, Space Vehicles Directorate
Keywords: orbit determination, event-based, neuromorphic, passive optical
Abstract:
The AURORAS technique achieves orbit determination an order of magnitude faster than conventional angles-only techniques using a single passive optical sensor. AURORAS is a new approach to orbit determination utilizing a differential estimate of motion at one point in time rather than integration of motion over a long arc of the orbital path. This approach relies on high cadence event-type data produced by Event-Based Cameras that record the position and time of change-detection events or from processed image stacks produced by fast framing global shutter CMOS cameras.
While conventional angles-only techniques require multiple observations separated in time, AURORAS requires only one continuous observation over a short time, just one look, to simultaneously measure angular position, velocity, and acceleration. Utilizing high-cadence detections (i.e., temporally dense angles-only observations) the AURORAS technique discerns subtle curvature in motion and calculates a state estimate without the lengthy observation time required by conventional methods.
Using simultaneous collections from two side-by-side sensors we compare AURORAS with a conventional angles-only technique and determine the shelf-life of the produced elset as if used to task another sensor. To reach the same level of accuracy produced by AURORAS, the conventional angles-only technique required significantly longer observing time.
By reducing the necessary observing time AURORAS poses to significantly improve the timeliness of vital Space Situational Awareness information to support decision making in the increasingly congested space domain.
The AURORAS technique for orbit determination is protected by patent US12080000.
Date of Conference: September 16-19, 2025
Track: Astrodynamics