Satellite maneuver detection and estimation with optical survey observations

Abstract Maneuver detection and estimation is deemed crucial for maintaining catalogs of Resident Space Objects (RSOs) as it helps to avoid sets duplicated objects track correlation issues. In fact, maneuvers, along with launches break-up events, are the main source potential new object detections during RSOs cataloging activities. For continuous reliable provision Situational Awareness (SSA) Traffic Management (STM) services, a challenging trade-off between time characterization accuracy maneuvers needs be performed. this paper, two novel operationally feasible methodologies proposed maneuver estimation. The first, track-to-orbit methodology, uses pre-maneuver orbit linearize dynamics estimate single burn that minimizes residuals post-maneuver tracks. second, an orbit-to-orbit estimates double solves minimization problem orbits. Both methods, based on optimal control approach, not only tackle but also integrated operational robust association frameworks. Results presented optical scenarios both simulated real data, providing insightful conclusions capabilities, performance limitations methods. Particular emphasis given importance association, since usually enough perform maneuver. Besides, capability methods provide solution problem, even when perfectly characterizing true maneuver, discussed.