Advanced Estimation and Data Fusion Strategies for Space Surveillance/Reconnaissance

Space surveillance or reconnaissance is that component of space situational awareness focused on the detection of resident space objects (RSOs) and the use of multisource data including available radar and electro-optical data to track and identify space objects. Our proposed program aims to develop modern and robust approaches to tracking RSOs through the use of advanced nonlinear estimation (filtering) and correlation techniques. In particular, we propose the use of an adaptive multiple hypothesis and multiple frame assignment tracker for the association engine, enabling one to adaptively change between single and multiple frame methods. Further, to handle the diversity of forces of an object that differ in different regimes of space, we propose specializing the use of multiple models including Hierarchical Mixture of Experts to space surveillance applications. The problem of identifying groups or classes of events such as maneuver/change detection along with the confidence in the classification is also addressed in the proposal. The additional use of non-traditional data to augment real-time metric data enables one to refine overall event assessment and ultimately ensure a more robust and reliable system for tracking. BENEFIT: The first anticipated benefit from the proposed program will be the development of a modern and robust approach to tracking space objects through the use of modern nonlinear estimation and correlation techniques. A second anticipated benefit will be significant advance in change and maneuver detection. The combination ensures a robust system for tracking and change/maneuver detection. The key commercialization of the proposed program would be a transition of the algorithms and software, either alone or embedded in a modern multiple target tracking system, to the JSpOC Mission Systems. This program also provides the opportunity to work with other contractors and the nation''s Air Force labs in support of the nation''s space protection and situational assessment programs utilizing Numerica''s strengths in all phases of multiple target tracking, modern control systems, sensors, sensor resource management, and situation assessment.