Overview of optical observation strategies and systems: LEO and GEO measurements acquisition for position and attitude determination

Abstract

With the advent of the new space economy, number of satellites orbiting around the Earth is growing exponentially, this consequently increase the impact risk between operative satellite and space debris. Sapienza Space Systems and Space Surveillance Laboratory has developed several software, strategies, and observation systems setup in order to identify, classify and monitor object in orbit. Using an extensive network of astronomical observatories located in various locations around the world the aggregation of raw data and measurements relating to a big number of optical surveys of the sky vault, S5lab manages to maintain a high degree of Space Situational Awareness regarding space surveillance. This paper will expose an overview of all methodologies, strategies and systems setup used by the research group to determinate attitude of a satellite or a space debris.