An Ontological Architecture for Orbital Debris Data

TL;DR

This paper proposes an ontological architecture for orbital debris data to enhance data sharing, standardization, and international cooperation in space situational awareness and debris management.

Contribution

It introduces an orbital debris ontology (ODO) to represent domain knowledge, standardize data, and promote semantic interoperability for improved space debris management.

Findings

Developed an orbital debris ontology (ODO) framework.

Facilitated semantic interoperability among SSA data sources.

Supported international cooperation in space debris management.

Abstract

The orbital debris problem presents an opportunity for inter-agency and international cooperation toward the mutually beneficial goals of debris prevention, mitigation, remediation, and improved space situational awareness (SSA). Achieving these goals requires sharing orbital debris and other SSA data. Toward this, I present an ontological architecture for the orbital debris domain, taking steps in the creation of an orbital debris ontology (ODO). The purpose of this ontological system is to (I) represent general orbital debris and SSA domain knowledge, (II) structure, and standardize where needed, orbital data and terminology, and (III) foster semantic interoperability and data-sharing. In doing so I hope to (IV) contribute to solving the orbital debris problem, improving peaceful global SSA, and ensuring safe space travel for future generations.