The RF Probe: providing space situational awareness through broad-spectrum detection and characterization

Raymond Zenick; Kimberly Kohlhepp; Russell Partch

doi:10.1117/12.542546

1 September 2004 The RF Probe: providing space situational awareness through broad-spectrum detection and characterization

Raymond Zenick, Kimberly Kohlhepp, Russell Partch

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Proceedings Volume 5418, Spaceborne Sensors; (2004) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.542546
Event: Defense and Security, 2004, Orlando, Florida, United States

Abstract

AeroAstro's patented RF Probe is a system designed to address the needs of spacecraft developers and operators interested in measuring and analyzing near-field RF emissions emanating from a nearby spacecraft of interest. The RF Probe consists of an intelligent spectrum analyzer with digital signal processing capabilities combined with a calibrated, wide-bandwidth antenna and RF front end that covers the 50 kHz to 18 GHz spectrum. It is capable of acquiring signal level and signal vector information, classifying signals, assessing the quality of a satellite’s transponders, and characterizing near-field electromagnetic emissions. The RF Probe is intended for either incorporation as part of a suite of spacecraft sensors, or as a stand-alone sensor on spacecraft or other platforms such as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The RF Probe was initially conceived as a tool to detect and aid in diagnosis of malfunctions in a spacecraft of interest. However, the utility of the RF Probe goes far beyond this initial concept, spanning a wide range of military applications. Most importantly, the RF Probe can provide space situational awareness for critical on-orbit assets by detecting externally induced RF fields, aiding in protection against potentially devastating attacks.

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Raymond Zenick, Kimberly Kohlhepp, and Russell Partch "The RF Probe: providing space situational awareness through broad-spectrum detection and characterization", Proc. SPIE 5418, Spaceborne Sensors, (1 September 2004); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.542546

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KEYWORDS

Space operations

Sensors

Calibration

Antennas

Digital signal processing

Situational awareness sensors

Space reconnaissance

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