Investigation of a Ground-based Optical Observation System for LEO Objects

Abstract

We have examined the possibilities of a ground-based optical observation system for monitoring LEO objects. Simulations and a test observation showed that two longitudinally separate observation sites with arrays of optical sensors can detect many LEO objects 30 cm in size and precisely determine their orbit. The proposed optical survey system may complement or replace the current radar observation system for LEO objects monitoring in the near future.