Speaker
Description
Increasing the accuracy and quantifying the uncertainty of space surveillance data is critical to minimising operator overheads and maximising the effectiveness of Collision Avoidance Maneuvers (CAMs). Tracking aids are a major part of this. Here, we present a new standard for required retroreflectivity for passive tracking aids to become interoperable with laser ranging stations in a transparent way. The Satellite Retroreflector Standards (SRS) highlight key metrics that maximise trackability and interoperability - such as optical cross-section by altitude, placement on the satellite and their role in satellite identification. Additionally, the impact of retroreflectors on reducing false positive rates in CAMs is presented. Overall, this work underscores the importance of retroreflectors in promoting safer and more reliable space operations.