New On-orbit Target Tracking Research

A new journal article has been published in the journal Aerospace Systems with recent research by Dr. Houman Hakima and Dr. Michael Bazzocchi. The work investigates different in-orbit target tracking techniques and introduces a new all-facet-imaging formation approach for tracking objects. More information on the article can be found below:

Title: “In-Orbit Target Tracking by Flyby and Formation-Flying Spacecraft”

Abstract: With the growing number of satellite launches, the tracking of resident space objects has become increasingly more important. The application of spacecraft formation flying for complex mission concepts can afford the opportunity for higher resolution imaging and precise tracking of targets in orbit. In-orbit target tracking using formations has many advantages over ground-based approaches, from improving space situational awareness to clearly detecting spacecraft exterior damage. This paper investigates the advantages of in-orbit target tracking considering three different strategies, namely flyby, natural formation, and a novel all-facet-imaging formation. For each strategy, a scenario is developed where an observer spacecraft with an imaging payload attempts to observe a target object while flying in the vicinity of the target. The attitude and orbital dynamics of the observer spacecraft are formulated for each scenario, and two guidance laws for controlling the observer’s orbit and attitude during the tracking are formulated. To evaluate the viability of the tracking strategies, case studies are performed, which consider disturbance torques and perturbative forces. The effectiveness of each approach with respect to tracking performance and required propellant is discussed.

Read more: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42401-021-00111-z

H. Hakima, M.C.F. Bazzocchi, “On-orbit Target Tracking by Flyby and Formation Flying Spacecraft,” Aerospace Systems, 2021.