We seek an Associate for a position in Space Situational Awareness (SSA) Characterization. The work will involve merging photometric (visible and near IR) observations with novel approaches at detector and orbital dynamics characterizations. Experience has shown that the photometric state of a Resident Space Object (RSO) is directly related to its physical state. Advances in SSA characterization will likely come from pushing the algorithms that measure raw data, extract orbital motion information, and extract information about the photometric state. The successful candidate would have expertise and/or interests in observational photometry, calibrations, faint object detection, orbital mechanics, and algorithm development.

 

References

Ferguson DC, et al: Journal of Spacecraft and Rockets 51(6): 1907-1913, 2014

Skinner M, et al: Commercial Space Situational Awareness–An investigation of ground-based SSA concepts to support commercial GEO satellite operators, in Advanced Maui Optical and Space Surveillance Technologies Conference (Volume 1, page 9) September 2013

Skinner MA, et al: Acta Astronautica 105(1): 1-10, 2014

 

Keywords:

SSA; Space; Situational awareness; Photometry; Characterization; Satellite; Visible; near IR;

Citizenship:  Open to U.S. citizens

Level:  Open to Postdoctoral and Senior applicants