Wireless Integrated Navigation & Docking System

Wireless Integrated Navigation & Docking System (WINGS) is an RF-enabled Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) kit and RPO threat warning device. WINGS leverages a unique combination of RF signals and computer vision technology, akin to LiDAR, as an alternative to traditional Electro-Optical (EO) sensors using angles-only navigation and stadiametric. This approach utilizes RF signals for precise distance measurement and positioning, offering robust performance under various environmental conditions, including those where optical systems might be impaired by lighting. WINGS uses computer vision technology to process the RF data to enable sophisticated object recognition and tracking capabilities, mimicking LiDAR's ability to create detailed spatial mappings. This dual-method approach enhances the RPO kit's operational versatility and reliability, providing a comprehensive solution for satellite servicing, docking, and debris mitigation tasks without relying solely on EO sensors. The anticipated benefit of this research for the USSF is the proliferation of a low-cost RPO kit alternative or a complement to support emerging on-orbit refueling requirements as well as a proximity operation threat detection warning device able to detect nearby adversary RPO threats.