The breakneck expansion of multi-payload launches in low Earth orbit (LEO) has seen significant escalation over the last three years in the Space Domain Awareness (SDA) enterprise. The uptick in satellite deployment frequency, gradation of mega-constellation deployments utilizing electric propulsion, and surge in metric observation density from the Space Surveillance Network (SSN) have driven major system enhancements to ensure spaceflight safety. Beginning with the launch phase, new tactics, software, and procedures have been developed over the last few years to optimize the tasking of the SSN and ensure custody of all recently launched satellites that are added to the space catalog. Ensuring appropriate tasking levels were pivotal during the satellite separation phase, which necessitated updates to the mission systems for improved delineation between clustered satellites in a short window of time. The improved incorporation of utilizing satellite owner/operator-provided ephemeris coupled with critical code improvements have revolutionized how we maintain custody of Earth orbiting objects. The exponential population growth of Low-Earth orbiting satellites have also increased the quantity of Conjunction Data Messages sent out to partners such as the Trajectory Operations Group (TOPO) in Johnson Space Center. We will discuss the need for continued collaboration between the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and other mega-constellation satellite operators to safeguard human spaceflight operations. Lastly, we will discuss how mega-constellations are driving best practices for safe operations across the space community.


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    Title :

    Lessons Learned on Mega-Constellation Deployments and Impact to Space Domain Awareness


    Contributors:
    C. Ramos (author) / D. McKissock (author) / N. Herzer (author) / K. Eppich (author) / B. Bourque (author) / J. Parris (author) / A. Alexander (author)

    Publication date :

    2023


    Size :

    12 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




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