Long baseline stereoscopic imager for close to Earth objects range measurements

This paper examines the setup of a ground-based stereoscopic imager which can detect close to Earth objects and provide data regarding their orbits. In its minimal configuration, the stereoscope consists of a pair of large aperture ultra-wide FOV lenses, backed with large surface CCDs. The stereoscope's base-line is 37 km. Each camera has automatic tracking capability and continuously images the night sky and sends images series to a local computer for offline data processing. Each computer has a GPS clock for camera synchronization. Evaluation of the photometric and astrometric performances of the single acquisition system is presented. Algorithms for automatically detection, recognition and classification of Low Earth Orbits (LEO) objects are also exemplified. The system presented in this paper is a generic solution for detection and ranging of moving objects in the sky, which can be extended for Near Earth Object surveillance if a new image acquisition system, with a longer focal length and a higher light sensitivity, is used.

► A long baseline stereoscope for LEO objects detection has been setup using low cost components. ► Evaluation of the photometric and astrometric performances of the one channel imager is presented. ► Objects in the digital image are classified according to their shape. ► LEO objects detection is made using motion analysis on consecutive images.