Selection of a given space object from the multitude observed by a specialized spacecraft

Abstract

Introduction: For the detection of most dangerous artificial space objects (space junk) in near-earth space, it is planned to use specialized spacecraft equipped with optoelectronic devices. In relation to this a problem arose when selecting the most dangerous object from the observed multitude, based on the measurements of inhomogeneous selective features that characterize these objects. Purpose: To form a composite non-dimensional indicator that depends on the quantity and quality of measurement information about the observed space objects, and that determines the decision rule for selecting the most dangerous object to maximize the probability of making the right decision. Results: A method is proposed for selecting the most dangerous space object under the condition of the limited amount of measurement information about physically inhomogeneous selective features of space objects located in the area which is observed by a specialized spacecraft. It should be noted that the measurement data on individual selective features of space objects may be absent. The proposed decision rule for the selection of the most dangerous space object takes into account not only inaccuracies and errors, but also the number of measurements of the selective characteristics of each object. The efficiency of the method has been demonstrated on a relevant example. Practical relevance: The simplicity of the determination of composite indicators characterizing space objects that are located in the area observed by a specialized spacecraft, and of the decision rule for selecting the most dangerous object makes it possible to solve this problem on board a specialized spacecraft in real time.