Low earth orbit space object differentiation using long-wave infrared polarimetry

Kevin Pohl, Jonathan Black, Jonathan Pitt, Edward Colbert

    Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

    Abstract

    Long-Wave Infrared (LWIR) polarimetric measurements can be used to characterize space objects under certain conditions. Both visible and LWIR polarimetry have been demonstrated extensively in terrestrial applications for detection and characterization of objects of interest. Visible polarimetry has also been demonstrated for space object detection. The objective of the current research is to use a software model to determine how well an object can be detected in low Earth orbit (LEO) with LWIR polarimetry using a modest aperture, diffraction-limited telescope (70cm aperture), and whether it can be differentiated from another object of different composition. Most targets at this range and wavelength are effectively point sources with an aggregate value for their degree of linear polarization, somewhat dependent on target rotation with respect to the sensor. This approach represents a step forward in optical systems for space situational awareness in that it can be used both day and night, regardless of external target illumination.

    Original languageEnglish (US)
    Title of host publicationPolarization
    Subtitle of host publicationMeasurement, Analysis, and Remote Sensing XIV
    EditorsDavid B. Chenault, Dennis H. Goldstein
    PublisherSPIE
    ISBN (Electronic)9781510636019
    DOIs
    StatePublished - 2020
    EventPolarization: Measurement, Analysis, and Remote Sensing XIV 2020 - None, United States
    Duration: Apr 27 2020May 8 2020

    Publication series

    NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
    Volume11412
    ISSN (Print)0277-786X
    ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

    Conference

    ConferencePolarization: Measurement, Analysis, and Remote Sensing XIV 2020
    Country/TerritoryUnited States
    CityNone
    Period4/27/205/8/20

    All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

    • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
    • Condensed Matter Physics
    • Computer Science Applications
    • Applied Mathematics
    • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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