Low Earth orbits are becoming congested. The rapid identification and precise orbit determination of space objects is mandatory for space management. Satellite laser ranging (SLR) enables precise orbit determination by measuring the two-way photon travel time of laser pulses from a ground station to satellites equipped with retroreflectors. Here we propose polarization-modulated SLR, where specially designed retroreflectors positioned on a satellite switch the polarization state of received polarized photons and reflect them back to a ground station for analysis. Satellite identifiers can be coded into arrays of reflectors with different polarizing properties, while the orbit determining capability of conventional SLR is maintained. We design, build and test polarized light-switching retroreflector assemblies and investigate the feasibility of accurate signal measurement from SLR ground stations. The approach is passive, straightforward to integrate and requires no electricity. Polarization-modulated SLR could contribute to increasing demands of space object monitoring, for example of mega-constellations or during cluster launches.

    Space is becoming congested. To manage satellite traffic, Nils Bartels and colleagues introduce and test the feasibility of polarization-modulated satellite laser ranging. This concept could enable precise orbit determination and rapid satellite identification.


    Access

    Download


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Space object identification via polarimetric satellite laser ranging


    Additional title:

    Commun Eng


    Contributors:

    Published in:

    Publication date :

    2022-05-26




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English





    Satellite Laser Ranging Operations

    Pearlman, M. R. / Goddard Space Flight Center; Laboratory for Terrestrial Physics | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1994


    NASA Satellite Laser Ranging Network

    Carter, David L. | NTRS | 2004


    Satellite laser ranging work at the Goddard Space Flight Center

    Mcgunigal, T. E. / Carrion, W. J. / Caudill, L. O. et al. | NTRS | 1975


    Calibrating the Naval Space Surveillance Fence Using Satellite Laser Ranging

    Gilbreath, G. C. / Schumacher, P. W. / Davis, M. A. et al. | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1998


    Satellite laser ranging work at the Goddard Space Flight Center

    Mcgunigal, T. E. / Carrion, W. J. / Caudill, L. O. et al. | NTRS | 1975