THE THEORY OF SIGNALS AND ITS APPLICATION IN THE MONITORING AND CONTROL OF SPACE DEBRIS

Abstract

This article examines contemporary aspects of space ecology, focusing on the observation, tracking, and management of space debris, as well as the role of signal theory in these processes. Space debris poses a serious threat to operational satellites and the safety of future space missions. The study analyses technologies for monitoring orbital space through radar and optical systems that apply the principles of electromagnetic signal processing, Doppler measurements, and Fourier transformations to detect and localize objects. It also discusses communication systems in space—radio frequency (RF) and free-space optical (FSO) links—and their application in data transmission between Earth and orbital spacecraft. Furthermore, the article presents current initiatives by NASA, ESA, and private companies aimed at cleaning orbital space using robotic and laser technologies. The study emphasizes that without the foundations of signal theory—including noise analysis, spectral density, and modulation processes—effective observation, communication, and management of the space environment would not be possible.