Abstract Ground-based radar systems are critical for physical and dynamical characterization of near-Earth objects (NEOs) and space debris. The operational aspect and applications of radar for planetary defense and space situational/domain awareness (SSA/SDA) are similar, but there are some factors that should be taken into account for an instrument to support both areas: planetary defense is focused on asteroids and comets in heliocentric orbit with perihelion distance <1.3 au. Special attention is given to potentially hazardous objects (PHOs), which are NEOs larger than 140 m that can come within 0.05 au (∼20 lunar distances) of Earth. Radar can quickly and accurately determine NEOs' future trajectory, therefore, the sooner an object can be observed, the safer it is to assess any possible threat. Radar is also useful to help obtaining information about the objects’ properties to plan for an impact mitigation mission if needed. For SSA, the focus is artificial objects orbiting Earth. This document presents the radar capabilities of the legacy Arecibo telescope, and explores synergistic future concepts for planetary defense and SSA.

    Highlights The Arecibo Observatory had the most powerful planetary radar system in the world. Arecibo supported planetary defense that focuses on near-Earth asteroids and comets. Ground-based radars are critical for characterization of near-Earth objects. Space Situational Awareness uses ground-based radar for space debris studies. Synergistic use of radar system for planetary defense and debris should be explored.


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    Title :

    The Arecibo Observatory's legacy and future radar capabilities



    Published in:

    Acta Astronautica ; 210 ; 610-615


    Publication date :

    2023-05-12


    Size :

    6 pages




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English




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