Automated Laser Tracking of Space Debris

Recipient: EOS Space Systems Pty Limited (ACT)

Funding: $4,040,355

Computer animation of a giant telescope building projecting a beam to track space junk

Consortium members:

  • Australian National University (ACT)
  • Defence Science and Technology Organisation (SA)
  • Near Space Systems Inc (USA)  

Project contact:

Dr Craig Smith
Email: csmith@eos-aus.com

This fact sheet is avaliable to download [PDF 54KB]


      

Space debris consists of man made junk in Earth orbit and represents a serious pollution problem in orbital space, and is a significant hazard to our continued use of space. Although the larger bits of space debris are tracked by radar systems, our inability to predict or avoid the recent crash between an Iridium telecommunications satellite and defunct Cosmos satellite show that more accuracy is required in tracking of space debris.

EOS Space Systems Pty Limited’s Automated Laser Tracking of Space Debris Project aims to effectively resolve orbit prediction uncertainty by demonstrating significantly higher accuracy of satellite orbits through a fully automatic, remotely operated laser based tracking station. 

This project featuring collaboration between universities and business will utilise active electro-optics, i.e. laser, systems to generate the higher levels of accuracy that are needed. Laser tracking systems are an alternative approach to radars that potentially achieve better accuracy at significantly less cost.

The project’s outcomes contribute to developing an internationally-competitive, commercially-viable, Space Surveillance Industry built upon indigenous Australian technology.  For more information please visit the EOS website.