Real-Time Detection, Tracking, and Anomaly Analysis of Dim Small Space Targets for Space Situational Awareness Using Star Sensors

In the space situation awareness task, high-quality imaging of space targets is the premise of completion of subsequent target orbit determination, cataloguing, tracking and other links. The quality of imaging will directly restrict the number of target detection and positioning accuracy, thus affecting the calculation of orbit. The detection of dim targets in space mainly faces the interference of stars and background noise. According to the spatial distribution characteristics of stars, targets and noise, we propose an algorithm using the identified stars to estimate the imaging model and use the imaging model to enhance the space target. Through simulation and experimental verification, the proposed algorithm can fully tap the potential of the imaging system and greatly improve the sensitivity and accuracy of target detection. After image enhancement and segmentation, target detection and tracking methods are designed according to the spatiotemporal characteristics of star, target and noise imaging. At the same time, the dynamic behavior of the space target is analyzed and predicted, and the anomaly detection and early warning system is designed. As an algorithm suitable for deployment in the detector, it can greatly reduce the amount of calculation for data post-processing, and provide a technical basis for the star sensor to realize space situation awareness function.