A Constellation of Three Micro Satellites uses UV and Visible Sensors to Demonstrate Target Acquisition and Tracking

A Constellation of Three Micro Satellites uses UV and Visible Sensors to Demonstrate Target Acquisition and Tracking

The Distributed Sensing Experiment (DSE) program demonstrates the technology of using micro satellites to perform target acquisition, tracking, and three-dimensional track development using a visible camera payload. DSE is a concept demonstration to show how micro satellites, working singly and as a group, can perform a large part of the missile defense function at a much lower cost than traditional systems. A key design parameter of the program is incorporating commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) hardware and software to reduce risk and cost, while maintaining performance. Having completed a successful Critical Design Review, the program is currently in fabrication, integration, and test phase. The constellation of satellites is scheduled for launch in CY2009. This paper describes the status and capabilities of the UV and visible sensor payloads, as well as algorithms and software being developed to achieve the DSE mission.