Abstract
This paper assesses the level of confidence for monitoring a ban on nuclear power in earth orbit using unclassified information from astronomical observatories based on Maui, Hawaii, and from the Kuiper Airborne Observatory. It is concluded that existing military and astronomical observatories can detect and identify operating nuclear reactor sources, such as the Soviet RORSAT and US SP‐100, on satellites with a very high level of confidence out to distances beyond geosynchronous orbit. The smaller radioisotope thermal sources, RTG and DIPS, could be detected with a medium level of confidence under certain conditions.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
