Space-based Space Situational Awareness (SB-SSA) is the ability to identify, track, and characterize objects in space, such as satellites and debris, using sensors on satellites. The number of Resident Space Objects (RSOs) has rapidly increased from 114 in 1970 to over 27,000 today, and is expected to surge dramatically, up to 70,000 over the next five years. The dramatic increase in RSOs is raising the risk of collisions as satellites and debris become so prevalent that it will interfere with space operations. This means it’s more important than ever to understand the positions of these objects in space and to predict their future movements. In addition to the risk of collision, various countries have a growing number of anti-satellite (ASAT) capabilities which pose a threat to the security of space assets.
The broad field of Space Domain Awareness (SDA) utilizes ground-based sensors and radar to track and monitor RSOs. USSTRATCOM is currently responsible for cataloging RSOs, a task previously managed my NORAD. The ground-based sensors used in SDA are limited by geographical and weather constraints, making it difficult to achieve comprehensive coverage.
As the need for continuous monitoring, analysis and prediction increases, SB-SSA satellites can overcome the limitations of SDA as it is done today. Ensuring the sustainability and safety of space operations requires a hybrid approach, combining both ground-based sensors and space-based assets to provide a more complete picture of the space environment. Commercial companies are developing innovative satellite constellations in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) designed to provide comprehensive tracking and monitoring of space objects. These advancements are needed to improve the accuracy of RSO location and trajectory tracking to decision makers to act in real time.
SB-SSA has the potential to enhance safety and seamless space operations by providing accurate data identifying RSOs’ location and trajectory. It will protect valuable civil, defense, and commercial space assets by tracking the rapid movements of RSOs and detecting collision risks. The benefits of SB-SSA also include managing traffic from the growing number of satellites and space debris and improving decision-making, leading to safer and more efficient space operations.
To achieve rapid object identification and characterization in SB-SSA, Comsat Architects’ approach is to integrate advanced sensor technologies, real-time data processing, and robust communication systems. Based on our research, Comsat Architects has identified key needs and gaps which we plan to address with our core capabilities of CubeSat/SmallSat technologies and data analysis using AI/ML to enable space missions with near-real-time communications.
Comsat Architects is working on developing a CubeSat/SmallSat with advanced optical, RF, and other sensors to deliver data through hybrid communication links combining commercial relay satellites and direct-to-earth communications to provide near-real-time SB-SSA. We have proven software capabilities which will be utilized to perform SDA USSTRATCOM catalog updates and RSO tracking using a network of on-orbit sensors.
By combining these capabilities, our approach offers a comprehensive and effective solution to SB-SSA, ensuring rapid and accurate identification and characterization of space objects.
