Detection of spatial debris using a CCD camera system embarked on a satellite that enables velocity and position of the debris to be determined by triangulation without complex electronics and with only low power requirements

摘要

Passive optical detection device embarked on a satellite for detection, sizing and velocity determination of space debris passing close to the satellite. The device comprises two CCD cameras with means for modulating received light intensity over time and processing computer for determining size, position and velocity of debris particles from the received images. Determination of particle position is by triangulation from the two camera images. Two photo-intensifier tubes are used which act as a rapid shutter. The gain of the photo- intensifier is varied by changing the voltage of the photo-cathode, with high frequency modulation of the order of several kHz.