High Accuracy, Automated Satellite Surveillance Network

Oceanit has successfully shown in Phase I that highly accurate (sub-arcsecond) observations are obtainable utilizing a relatively low-cost COTS system. These highly accurate angular observations can be introduced into the orbit determination process as asupplement to high-quality range data. These improved angular observations help resolve the geometric ambiguity of range-only orbit determination. In addition to supplementing high-quality range data, these improved, angles-only data can also help reduceerrors in the current space-object maintenance catalog.The method for gaining highly accurate metric data lies within the data processing methodology called astrometry or in-frame metrics, where the position of the satellite is referenced directly tobackground stars defining the stellar coordinate system. This approach eliminates most of the errors associated with the mount and atmosphere. Oceanit was able to acquire plate solutions to six coefficients, thus allowing for sub-arcsecondmeasurements.The proposed Phase II system will integrate the breakthrough technologies developed in Phase I. The proposed system has also been identified as a significant operational asset to be utilized in the missions of both Air Force ResearchLaboratory's Detachment 15, Air Force Maui Optical Station and Air Force SBIRS Defense Support Program-Shield/ALERT.