Space Debris detection and tracking with the techniques of cosmic ray physics

TL;DR

This study explores using cosmic-ray physics techniques and the Mini-EUSO space telescope to detect and track small space debris from the ISS, demonstrating feasibility through simulations and preliminary measurements.

Contribution

It introduces a novel approach by applying cosmic-ray detection methods to space debris tracking using Mini-EUSO, including simulations, trigger algorithms, and initial experimental validation.

Findings

Mini-EUSO can detect SD illuminated by the Sun within certain size and distance limits.

Simulations predict detection capabilities and optimal parameters for SD tracking.

Initial open-sky tests confirmed the ability to detect fast-moving objects like rocket bodies.

Abstract

Space Debris (SD) consist of non-operational artificial objects orbiting around the Earth, which could possibly damage space vehicles, such as the International Space Station (ISS) or other manned spacecrafts. The vast majority of such objects are cm-sized, not catalogued and usually the tracking data are not precise enough. Here we present the feasibility study of SD detection and tracking with techniques usually employed in cosmic-ray physics. For this purpose, we have evaluated the possibility of using Mini-EUSO, a space-borne fluorescence telescope to be deployed on the ISS, to track SD illuminated by the Sun. By means of ESAF (EUSO Simulation and analysis Framework) simulation and by developing the trigger algorithms, we estimated the minimum size and maximum distances of detectable SD. We then studied the number of possible SD detections using an ESA software called MASTER (Meteoroid and SD Terrestrial Environment Reference). With the Mini-EUSO Engineering Model (Mini-EUSO EM), we performed some measurements to estimate the reflectance of the most common SD materials and to demonstrate the ability of Mini-EUSO to detect SD events. We also performed some tests in open-sky conditions, identifying and tracking fast-moving objects. In particular, the detection of a rocket body allowed us to confirm the simulation outcomes predictions and the expected performance of the detector.