Victor Bucklew, L3Harris; Joe Dodd, L3Harris; Jim Drakes, L3Harris; Donna Kocak, L3Harris
Keywords: Space debris, sensors, plasma, precursor solitons, debris detection technique
Abstract:
Sub-centimeter debris in Earth’s orbit poses a significant hazard to spacecraft, satellites, and astronauts. Methods for detecting and tracking sub-centimeter debris in Earth’s orbit using direct detection of debris generated solitary waves have been previously studied. This paper introduces a new method for debris detection using solitary waves called Plasma Detection and Ranging (PLADAR). PLADAR uses plasma features resulting from interactions between user generated precursor solitons and debris generated precursor or pinned solitary waves, to extend the range and size of space debris particles which can possibly be detected with soliton-based techniques. Numerical evaluation of soliton and soliton-soliton collision characteristics as a function of debris size, provides preliminary feasibility of the method, and outlines areas in need of further study and development.
Date of Conference: September 16-19, 2025
Track: Space Debris