A Prediction and Tracking Method for Small-Aperture, Continuous Optical Tracking of Artificial Satellites

摘要

Field-proven prediction and tracking techniques are discussed, with their application to a 4-axis mounted 24" Cassegrainian telescope. Although the actual tracking performed to date has been for the purpose of photoelectric photometry of satellites, the successful techniques employed are applicable to other optical satellite tracking missions whose requirements include a large-aperture detection capability coupled with precision small-aperture continuous tracking. Emphasis is upon the efficient combination of a skilled computer-observer with inexpensive equipment, a combination which provides a wide range of versatility and flexibility.