The development of a satellite signatures testbed based on the Raven system

摘要

We describe the process of retrofitting an existing Raven telescope with enhanced optical and detector improvements that enable the system autonomously to collect color photometric data. Since it is a commercial system, it provides a low-cost approach for the study of man-made satellites, stars, asteroids, and other space objects. The system upgrades include filter capabilities, a Charge-coupled Device (CCD) camera system, a robust mount, and replacement of the existing telescope with one of larger aperture. Raven systems are not new to the realm of contributing sensors in tracking man-made satellites, and our program represents a logical increase in performance and capabilities as new commercial items have become available. Therefore, this current Raven Signatures Testbed is the latest evolution of such small, lightweight, remote, autonomous systems. This telescope will increase the productivity of the Satellite Signatures Program at the Air Force Research Laboratory by increases in observation time and by enabling remote operations along with autonomous data collection and storage.