Abstract This paper presents a new algorithm for autonomous multitarget tracking of resident space objects using optical angles-only measurements from a spaceborne observer. To enable autonomous angles-only navigation of spacecraft swarms, observers must identify and track multiple known or unknown target space objects in view, without reliance on a-priori relative orbit knowledge. Extremely high tracking precision is necessary despite low measurement frequencies and limited computational resources. The new ’Spacecraft Angles-only MUltitarget tracking System’ (SAMUS) algorithm has been developed to meet these objectives and constraints. It combines domain-specific modeling of target kinematics with multi-hypothesis techniques to autonomously track multiple unknown targets using only sequential camera images. A measurement transform ensures that target motion in the observer reference frame follows a consistent parametric model; curve fitting is used to predict track behavior; and kinematic track gating and scoring criteria improve the efficiency and accuracy of the multi-hypothesis approach. Monte Carlo testing with high-fidelity simulations demonstrates close to 100% data association precision and high recall across a range of multi-spacecraft formations, in both near-circular and eccentric orbits. Tracking is maintained in the presence of eclipse periods, significant measurement noise, and partially known swarm maneuvers. A comparison to other tracking algorithms reveals strong advantages in precision, robustness and computation time, crucial for spaceborne angles-only navigation.

    Highlights Angles-only navigation for spacecraft swarms requires multitarget tracking. A novel tracking algorithm is developed to meet the constraints of in-orbit use. Domain-specific kinematic modeling is combined with a multi-hypothesis approach. Tracking is agnostic to orbit eccentricity, swarm geometry, and swarm maneuvers. Close to 100% measurement assignment precision is achieved.


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    Titel :

    Autonomous angles-only multitarget tracking for spacecraft swarms


    Beteiligte:

    Erschienen in:

    Acta Astronautica ; 189 ; 514-529


    Erscheinungsdatum :

    2021-08-27


    Format / Umfang :

    16 pages




    Medientyp :

    Aufsatz (Zeitschrift)


    Format :

    Elektronische Ressource


    Sprache :

    Englisch




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