Initial Orbit Determination of Low-Earth-Orbiting Objects Using Multi-Site Space-Based Optical Observations

Abstract

Space Situational Awareness (SSA) is a growing field of study which provides knowledge of Resident Space Objects (RSOs) to help maintain a safe and sustainable space environment around Earth. A primary component of SSA is obtaining Initial Orbit Determinations (IODs) of these objects via optical observations. The present way of obtaining optical observations is by using a single observation site. However, using only one observation site does not yield accurate range or IOD results. This research tests space-based single-site and multi-site observations of RSOs in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to provide the necessary information to calculate IODs. Gooding’s algorithm is used to calculate IODs from the simulated data, since it is the most robust IOD algorithm discussed in the literature. The results from this research demonstrate that selected multi-site observations produce more accurate range and IOD results than single-site observations and, thus, provide advancement opportunities for various SSA efforts.