Retroreflector Spherical Systems of the BLITS Glass Satellites

Abstract

Spatial and energy characteristics of the BLITS glass geodesic passive satellites with radial symmetry for high-precision laser ranging in the interests of GLONASS were analyzed. Principles of calculating the retroreflector spherical system of satellites being a set of concentric layers with different refractive index and thickness were considered. In this case and in accordance with specifics of space application of the retroreflector spherical system of satellites, it is necessary to ensure the maximum reflected power in the receiver direction taking into account phenomenon of the light high-speed aberration. It is shown that on the basis of simulating in the Zemax program, it becomes possible to select optimal parameters of the optical elements, i.e., curvature radii and refractive indices taking into account the production technological capabilities, which are forming the required curvature of the reflected light wave surface. Based on the aberration calculation, diffraction patterns of the reflected coherent laser radiation in the far zone were analyzed, and design options for a retroreflector spherical system of satellites with increased maxima of the first or second orders were selected. A formula is provided for estimating spatial energy characteristics of the BLITS satellites including the equivalent scattering surface. The concept of the outflow beam efficient diameter is introduced, within which the reflected light forms a diffraction pattern in the far zone