OPTICAL OBSERVATIONS IN ESA'S SSA PROGRAMME

Abstract

This paper describes the current and planned optical observations initiatives at ESA’s SSA Programme. Several coordinated observation campaigns comprising some sensors have been performed. First qualification results from one of these sensors, SHOT telescope from Teplice Observatory are presented. The concept of an Expert Centre facilitating the SSA space surveillance and tracking (SST) segment’s use of optical passive and laser ranging data from external sensors is detailed that is found relevant for the community of optical observers in SST. ESA’s two half-metre class telescopes on robotic mounts have been integrated in the frame of a technology development programme. Following an in-factory qualification programme, under human supervision and involving commercial, off-the-shelf processing software, for full-end autonomy and robustness testing, the deployment to final sites, covering both hemispheres, is expected to finalise in 2018. Main figure of merits of these robotic telescopes are described.