Enhancing space situational awareness using passive radar from space based emitters of opportunity

Abstract

Space debris is a growing hazard to space users. Debris trajectories must be accurately predicted to maintain safe space access. Accurate predictions are premised on precise knowledge of the current trajectory, and a detailed understanding of disturbances that affect the future trajectory. Both tasks are facilitated by accurate and timely tracking of debris. It is possible to track space debris using radar and telescopes, yet both are expensive and result in unacceptable trajectory projections due to limitations on both accuracy and update frequency. In this paper we consider the performance budget necessary to augment debris tracking by passive radar, initially using Global Navigation Satellites as emitters of opportunity.