Location Analysis Probing Rockets in Ground with Telemetry Data

Rocket launch centers are crucial in technological development across various fields, including meteorology, long-distance real-time communications, geoprocessing, and satellite operations. However, one of the challenges in tracking probing rockets is accurately identifying their position from the moment of launch until the initial seconds, due to ground noise that interferes with traditional radar location systems. In this study is proposed an innovative method to precisely determine the distance between the rocket and the ground telemetry station. We utilize onboard telemetry signals processed by the Acquisition and Processing Data Trajectory (APDtraj) system, developed by Delsis Aerospace for the Launch Center. This system enables the identification of the rocket's position both on the ground and during the early stages of flight, using telemetry data processed by APDtraj. This monitoring equipment alone calculated the distance between the Telemetry Station and the rocket just moments before launch lift-off with an error of only 16.844 meters from the actual position of origin. Based on our studies, we were able to measure the radial distance and location between the rocket and the telemetry station just four seconds after launch, even without reliable radar information, which is often disrupted by ground noise. This technological advancement not only enhances the efficiency of rocket launch operations but also expands overall tracking capabilities.