Radar calibration and tracking of space objects

Abstract

To provide technologies for calibrating radars and tracking space objects.SOLUTION: Technologies disclosed herein enable a technique for calibrating a radar based on using an elemental antenna that can be embedded in a housing hosting a set of antenna elements, or an antenna mounted to a reflector. Some of such technologies enable a radar site containing a first 1D phased array 112 and a second 1D phased array 112, where the first 1D phased array sends a set of signals and receives a set of reflections based on the set of signals, and the second 1D phased array receives the set of reflections.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 914,304, filed on October 11, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

[0002] This disclosure relates to radar calibration and tracking of space objects.

Background Art

[0003] There are various techniques for tracking various space objects (e.g., low - Earth orbit objects, satellites, debris). For example, some space objects can be tracked via 2D phased - array radars. However, these systems are technically disadvantageous because they are large in size, complex in technology, and high in economic cost. Some of these technical drawbacks can be overcome by steerable dish radars. However, these systems are technically disadvantageous because of their low tracking rate, mechanical steering, and limited beam capabilities.

Summary of the Invention

[0004] Generally, this disclosure enables various techniques for calibrating a radar and tracking space objects. For example, some such techniques enable calibration of a radar based on the use of (a) an element antenna that can be embedded in a housing that houses a set of antenna elements, or (b) an antenna attached to a reflector. For example, some such techniques enable a radar site that includes a first 1D phased - array and a second 1D phased - array, where the first 1D phased - array transmits a set of signals and receives a set of reflections based on the set of signals, and the second 1D phased - array receives the set of reflections.

[0005] In one embodiment, the system comprises a defined region, a first frame located within the defined region, a first trough reflector located within the defined region, wherein the first trough reflector is fixed to the first frame and has a first shape, a first longitudinal valley, and a first scale, a first 1D phase array located within the defined region, wherein the first 1D phase array is supported by the first frame on the first trough reflector, so that the first 1D phase array transmits a set of signals via the first trough reflector and receives a set of reflections based on the set of signals via the first trough reflector, and a second located within the defined region. The system comprises a frame and a second trough reflector positioned within a defined area, wherein the second trough reflector is fixed to the second frame and has a second shape, a second longitudinal valley, and a second scale, wherein the second shape is the first shape, the second longitudinal valley is parallel to the first longitudinal valley, and the second scale is smaller than the first scale, and a second 1D phase array positioned within a defined area, wherein the second 1D phase array is supported by the second frame on the second trough reflector, so that the second 1D phase array does not transmit any signals through the second trough reflector and receives a set of reflections based on a set of signals through the second trough reflector. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] This disclosure illustrates an embodiment of a radar site. [Figure 2] This disclosure shows several diagrams of radar sites. [Figure 3] This disclosure shows several diagrams of radar sites. [Figure 4] This disclosure shows several diagrams of radar sites. [Figure 5] This disclosure shows several diagrams of radar sites. [Figure 6] This disclosure shows several diagrams of radar sites. [Figure 7] This disclosure shows several diagrams of radar sites. [Figure 8] Multiple embodiments of multiple transmission or reception assemblies as described herein are shown. [Figure 9] This disclosure illustrates embodiments of multiple transmission or reception assemblies supported via a catwalk. [Figure 10] This disclosure shows an embodiment of the diagram of a radar site. [Figure 11] This disclosure shows a diagrammatic embodiment of the operation management center and 1D phase array. [Figure 12] This disclosure shows an embodiment of a frame supporting a 1D phase array on a trough reflector. [Figure 13] An embodiment of the process for determining the initial orbit is shown in reference to a pair of diagrams showing the satellite's orbit intersecting the first and second fields of view provided in this disclosure. [Figure 14] This disclosure provides embodiments of a process for determining the initial trajectory and a software architecture for that process. [Figure 15] This disclosure provides embodiments of a process for determining the initial trajectory and a software architecture for that process. [Figure 16] This disclosure provides embodiments of a process for determining the initial trajectory and a software architecture for that process. [Figure 17] This disclosure provides embodiments of a process for determining the initial trajectory and a software architecture for that process. [Figure 18] This disclosure provides embodiments of a process for determining the initial trajectory and a software architecture for that process. [Figure 19] This disclosure provides embodiments of a process for determining the initial trajectory and a software architecture for that process. [Figure 20] This disclosure provides embodiments of a process for determining the initial trajectory and a software architecture for that process. [Figure 21] Embodiments of a process for determining an initial orbit determination according to the present disclosure and a software architecture therefor are shown. [Figure 22] Embodiments of a process for determining an initial orbit determination according to the present disclosure and a software architecture therefor are shown. [Figure 23] Embodiments of a process for determining an initial orbit determination according to the present disclosure and a software architecture therefor are shown. [Figure 24] Embodiments of a process for determining an initial orbit determination according to the present disclosure and a software architecture therefor are shown. [Figure 25] Embodiments of a process for determining an initial orbit determination according to the present disclosure and a software architecture therefor are shown. [Figure 26] Embodiments of a process for determining an initial orbit determination according to the present disclosure and a software architecture therefor are shown. [Figure 27] Embodiments of a process for determining an initial orbit determination according to the present disclosure and a software architecture therefor are shown. [Figure 28] Embodiments of a process for determining an initial orbit determination according to the present disclosure and a software architecture therefor are shown. [Figure 29] Embodiments of a process for determining an initial orbit determination according to the present disclosure and a software architecture therefor are shown. [Figure 30] Embodiments of a process for determining an initial orbit determination according to the present disclosure and a software architecture therefor are shown. [Figure 31] Embodiments of a process for determining an initial orbit determination according to the present disclosure and a software architecture therefor are shown. [Figure 32] Embodiments of an interference technique according to the present disclosure are shown. [Figure 33] Embodiments of an interference technique according to the present disclosure are shown.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0007] Generally, the present disclosure enables various techniques for calibrating a radar and tracking celestial objects. For example, some such techniques enable calibration of the radar based on the use of (a) element antennas that can be embedded in a housing that houses a set of antenna elements, or (b) an antenna attached to a reflector. For example, some such techniques enable a radar site that includes a first 1D phase array and a second 1D phase array, where the first 1D phase array transmits a set of signals and receives a set of reflections based on the set of signals, and the second 1D phase array receives the set of reflections. Here, the present disclosure will be more fully described with reference to FIGS. 1 - 33 in which various embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. The present disclosure can be embodied in many different forms and should not necessarily be construed as limited to the embodiments disclosed herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the various concepts of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0008] The various terms used herein may mean a direct or indirect, complete or partial, temporary or permanent act or omission. For example, when an element is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element, that element can be directly on the other element, can be connected or coupled to the other element, or there can be intervening elements including direct or indirect deformation forms. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly connected to" or "directly coupled to" another element, there are no intervening elements.

[0009] The various terms used herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily intended to limit the disclosure. Where used herein, the various singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural form unless otherwise explicitly indicated by the context. Where used herein, the various terms “comprises,” “includes,” and / or “comprising,” and “including,” specify, when used herein, that a described feature, integer, step, operation, element, or component exists, but not that one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, or groups thereof exist or are added.

[0010] As used herein, the term “or” is intended to mean inclusive “or” rather than exclusive “or.” That is, unless otherwise specified or as is evident from the context, “X uses A or B” is intended to mean any of the natural set of inclusive substitutions. That is, “X uses A or B” is satisfied under any of the above cases if X uses A, X uses B, or X uses both A and B.

[0011] Unless otherwise specified, all terms used herein (including technical and scientific terms) have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art of the field to which this disclosure pertains. Various terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having the meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art, and should not be interpreted in an idealized and / or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0012] Furthermore, this specification may use relative terms such as “downward,” “below,” “upward,” and “above” to describe the relationship between one element and another, as shown in the accompanying set of illustrative drawings. Such relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the technology being shown, in addition to the orientations depicted in the accompanying set of drawings. For example, if a device is turned upside down in the accompanying set of drawings, an element described as being “below” another element will be oriented towards the “above” the other element. Similarly, if a device in one of the illustrative drawings is turned upside down, various elements described as “below” or “below” another element will be oriented towards the “above” the other element. Thus, various illustrative terms such as “downward” and “below” may encompass both upward and downward orientations.

[0013] Where used herein, the terms “about” or “substantially” refer to a variation of + / - 10% from the nominal value / term. Such variation is always included in any given value / term provided herein, whether or not such variation is specifically mentioned.

[0014] The terms "first," "second," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections, but these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not necessarily be limited by such terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or section from another. Accordingly, the first element, component, region, layer, or section discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or section without departing from the various teachings of this disclosure.

[0015] Features described in relation to a particular embodiment may be combined and partially combined in various other embodiments and / or in combination therewith. Similarly, different aspects and / or elements of embodiments disclosed herein may also be combined or partially combined. Furthermore, some embodiments, whether individual and / or collective, may be components of a larger system, other procedures may take precedence, and / or their application may be modified in other ways. Furthermore, as disclosed herein, several steps may be required before, after, and / or concurrently with the embodiments. It should be noted that, at least as disclosed herein, any and / or all methods and / or processes may be performed at least partially through at least one entity in any manner.

[0016] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to drawings of idealized embodiments (and intermediate structures) of the present disclosure. Therefore, variations from the illustrated shapes, for example, as a result of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances, should be expected. Accordingly, the various embodiments of the present disclosure should not necessarily be construed as being limited to the various shapes of the region shown herein, but should include, for example, deviations from shape resulting from manufacturing.

[0017] As disclosed herein, any and / or all elements may be formed from the same structurally continuous parts, such as being a single unit, and / or being an assembly and / or module, and / or being manufactured separately and / or connected. As disclosed herein, any and / or all elements may be manufactured through any manufacturing process, whether additive manufacturing, subtractive manufacturing, and / or any other type of manufacturing. For example, some manufacturing processes include three-dimensional (3D) printing, laser cutting, computer numerical control routing, milling, pressing, stamping, vacuum forming, hydraulic forming, injection molding, lithography, and the like.

[0018] Figure 1 shows an embodiment of a radar site according to the Disclosure. Figures 2-7 show multiple diagrams of a radar site according to the Disclosure. Figure 8 shows multiple embodiments of multiple transmission or reception assemblies according to the Disclosure. Figure 9 shows an embodiment of multiple transmission or reception assemblies supported via a catwalk according to the Disclosure. Figure 10 shows a diagrammatic embodiment of a radar site according to the Disclosure. Figure 11 shows a diagrammatic embodiment of a traffic control center and a 1D phase array according to the Disclosure. Figure 12 shows an embodiment of a frame supporting a 1D phase array on a trough reflector according to the Disclosure. Figure 13 shows an embodiment of a process for determining an initial orbit in light of a pair of diagrams showing the satellite's orbit intersecting a first and second field of view according to the Disclosure. Figures 14-31 show embodiments of a process for determining an initial orbit, a software architecture therefor, and a comparison of results for determining the orbit of a space object using the TLE technique and results for determining the orbit of a space object using the initial orbit determination technique according to the Disclosure. Figures 32-33 show embodiments of the interferometry technique according to the Disclosure.

[0019] A defined area 100 (e.g., radar site, enclosed area, fenced area) has a volume of soil 102 and a pad 104 (e.g., concrete, rubber), where the volume of soil 102 supports the pad 104. As shown in Figure 2, the defined area 100 has a fence line 114 enclosed by a site boundary line 116. The volume of soil 102 rests on the ground, but this is optional. The pad 104 accommodates a first radar pair 120a and a second radar pair 120b.

[0020] As shown in Figure 5, the pad 104 has a first island supporting a first radar, a second island supporting a second radar, and a bridge spanning between the first and second islands. As shown in Figure 7, the pad 104 is arranged such that the first and second islands are offset from each other (for tracking purposes). However, it should be noted that these configurations can vary. For example, the bridge may be omitted, the first and second islands may not be offset, or the pad 104 may be omitted.

[0021] The first radar pair 120a includes a first radar having a first frame 106, a first trough reflector 108 (also called a parabolic cylinder antenna, parabolic cylindrical antenna, or parabolic trough antenna), a first catwalk 110, and a first 1D phase array 110. The first frame 106 (e.g., U-shaped or C-shaped with a set of support legs) is positioned within a defined region 100. The first trough reflector 108 is positioned within the defined region 100 and is fixed (e.g., fastened) to the first frame 106 and has a first shape (e.g., U-shaped, C-shaped), a first longitudinal trough (e.g., extending in the Z dimension in Figures 1, 4, 5), and a first scale (e.g., size). For example, the first trough reflector 108 can be formed by a group of panels (e.g., metal, alloy, steel, mesh, grid) arranged directly adjacent to one another, forming a top surface configured to reflect various signals (e.g., radio, light, etc.). For example, if at least some panels are mesh panels with holes in them (e.g., contributing to low cost), the holes can be sized to be smaller than the operating wavelength of the first 1D phase array 110. For example, a small-aperture mesh provides high reflectivity and low leakage. Signal leakage through the mesh increases the antenna backlobe and system temperature. Antenna backlobe refers to the radiation of energy from the antenna in the direction opposite to the principal radiation direction. As the backlobe increases, the antenna energy radiated in the principal direction decreases. Large-diameter mesh is low-cost, lightweight, and reduces wind load. These factors are taken into consideration in the design of the mesh aperture. Furthermore, painting the mesh can protect the material from weathering. White paint reflects sunlight from the trough surface, thereby minimizing thermal deformation of the structure. The materials and methods used in constructing the trough reflector can help reduce the cost of the first radar. Note that the first trough reflector 108, as shown in Figure 12, can include a group of calibration antennas 146. How these antennas 146 are used will be explained further below.

[0022] As shown in Figure 9, the first 1D phase array 112 is formed (or arranged) in a first line. The first 1D phase array 112 is positioned in the first line within a defined region 100. The first 1D phase array 112 is supported (e.g., raised) by a first frame 106 on a first trough reflector 108, so that the first 1D phase array 112 transmits a set of signals (e.g., radio) through the first trough reflector 108 and receives a set of reflections based on the set of signals through the first trough reflector 108. For example, as shown in Figure 6, there may be a reflection pattern 200 on which the first 1D phase array 112 can transmit a set of signals toward the trough reflector 108, which then reflects the set of signals in various directions (e.g., from the vertical). For example, the set of signals and the set of reflections can be transmitted and received in a V-shape (e.g., 11 o'clock, 2 o'clock). When a set of signals is reflected by a space object (e.g., a low-Earth orbit object, satellite, or debris), the reflected set is received via the first trough reflector 108 and then reflected toward the first 1D phase array 112.

[0023] The first radar pair 120a includes a second radar having a second frame 106, a second trough reflector 108 (also called a parabolic cylinder antenna, parabolic cylindrical antenna, or parabolic trough antenna), a second catwalk 110, and a second 1D phase array 110. The second frame 106 is positioned within a defined region 100. The second trough reflector 108 is positioned within the defined region 100, fixed (e.g., fastened) to the second frame 106, and has a second shape (e.g., U-shaped, C-shaped), a second longitudinal trough (e.g., extending in the Z dimension in Figures 1, 4, 5), and a second scale (e.g., size). For example, the second trough reflector 108 can be formed by a group of panels (e.g., metal, alloy, steel, mesh, grid) arranged directly adjacent to one another, forming a top surface configured to reflect various signals (e.g., radio, light). For example, if at least some panels are mesh panels with holes in them (e.g., contributing to low cost), the holes can be sized to be smaller than the operating wavelength of the second 1D phase array 110. For example, a small-aperture mesh provides high reflectivity and low leakage. Signal leakage through the mesh increases the antenna backlobe and system temperature. Antenna backlobe refers to the radiation of energy from the antenna in the direction opposite to the principal radiation direction. As the backlobe increases, the antenna energy radiated in the principal direction decreases. Large-diameter mesh is low-cost, lightweight, and reduces wind load. These factors are taken into consideration in the design of the mesh apertures. Furthermore, painting the mesh can protect the material from weathering. White paint reflects sunlight from the trough surface, thereby minimizing thermal deformation of the structure. The materials and methods used in constructing the trough reflector can help reduce the cost of the first radar. Note that the second trough reflector 108, as shown in Figure 12, can include a group of calibration antennas 146. How these antennas 146 are used will be explained further below.

[0024] The second shape of the second trough reflector 108 is identical to the first shape of the first trough reflector 108. The second longitudinal valley of the second trough reflector 108 is parallel to the first longitudinal valley of the first trough reflector 108. However, the second scale of the second trough reflector 108 is smaller than (but equal to or larger than) the first scale of the first trough reflector 108. For example, the first and second trough reflectors 108 and 108 are identical in shape and orientation (and spaced apart from each other), but the second trough reflector 108 is a smaller version of the first trough reflector 106. Such a configuration is technically advantageous for various reasons. For example, such a configuration enables efficient (a) determination of the initial orbit of a space object, (b) determination of distance data to the space object, (c) determination of Doppler data for the space object, (d) angular data for the space object, and (e) radar interferometry performance for the space object. For example, an array of 1D parabolic arrays 108 that can be configured to work together to perform satellite measurements by having one or more transmission-receive arrays 108 and one or more receiver-receive arrays 108 measure polarization or perform interferometry to obtain the 3D position of a target.

[0025] As shown in Figure 9, the second 1D phase array 110 forms a second line parallel to the first line (or is arranged in the second line). The second 1D phase array 110 is positioned within a defined region 100 in the second line. The second 1D phase array 112 is supported (e.g., raised) by the second frame 106 on the second trough reflector 108, and therefore the second 1D phase array 110 does not transmit any signals through the second trough reflector 108. However, the second 1D phase array 110 receives a set of reflections based on a set of signals through the second trough reflector 108. For example, as shown in Figure 6, when a set of signals from a first 1D phase array is reflected by a space object (e.g., a low-Earth orbit object, satellite, or debris), a reflection pattern 200 may exist, and the set of reflections is then received via a second trough reflector 108 and subsequently reflected toward a second 1D phase array 112. For example, the set of reflections may be received in a V-shape (e.g., 11 o'clock, 2 o'clock). Such a configuration is technically advantageous for various reasons. For example, such a configuration enables efficient (a) determination of the initial orbit of a space object, (b) determination of distance data to the space object, (c) determination of Doppler data for the space object, (d) angular data for the space object, and (e) radar interferometry performance for the space object. For example, an array of 1D parabolic arrays 108 can be configured to work together to perform satellite measurements by measuring polarization or performing interferometry to obtain the 3D configuration of a target, with one or more transmission-receive arrays 108 and one or more reception-receive arrays 108 measuring polarization or performing interferometry.

[0026] It should be noted that for a first radar (many-to-one correspondence), there may be two or more second radars (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, tens, hundreds, thousands). These second radars can be located inside or outside the defined region 100, regardless of whether the first longitudinal trough of the first trough reflector 108 of the first radar is parallel to at least two of the longitudinal troughs of the second trough reflector 108 of the second radar. How far these second radars (e.g., trough reflectors) are from the first radar, or how far they are from each other, depends on the signal frequency (e.g., about 15 meters from the focal point). For example, the second radars can be randomly distributed within the defined region 100, but accuracy may improve as the distance between the first radar and at least two of the second radars, or between at least two of the second radars, increases.

[0027] Each of the first radar and the second radar includes a catwalk 110 having a first leg 110L, a second leg 110L, and a platform 110P. The first leg 110L is fixed to each frame 106 within a defined area 100 (e.g., assembled, fastened, and monolithic). The first leg 110L extends over each trough reflector 108. The second leg 110L is fixed to each frame 106 within a defined area 100 (e.g., assembled, fastened, and monolithic). The second leg 110L extends over each trough reflector 108. The platform 110P is fixed to the first leg 110L and the second leg 1110L within a defined area 100 (e.g., assembled, fastened, and monolithic). Platform 110P extends over each trough reflector 108 along each longitudinal valley (up or not up) and accommodates (e.g., supports) each 1D phase array 112. The platform 110P of the first radar may extend parallel to the platform 110P of the second radar. Note that there are respective ladders spanning between the pad 104 and the platform 110P for physical access to each catwalk 110.

[0028] As shown in Figures 1, 3, 4, 5, and 9, the catwalk 110 can be an upright A-shape so that the platform 110P extends over each trough reflector 108. However, as shown in Figure 12, the catwalk 110 can be an inclined V-shape or an inclined A-shape. Regardless of how the catwalk 110 is shaped, the catwalk 110 supporting the first 1D phase array 112 may be structurally identical to the catwalk 110 supporting the second 1D phase array 112, but on a larger scale (scaling up from second to first). Similarly, the first radar has a proportionally larger focal point than the second radar. For example, as shown in Figure 3, the focal point of the first radar is 4 meters, while the focal point of the second radar is 2 meters (50% scale down). Similarly, as shown in Figure 3, the first and second trough reflectors 108 are aligned in the center.

[0029] As shown in Figure 8, the first 1D phase array 112 or the second 1D phase array 112 may include a set of housings 300. In such a configuration, these housings 300 can be arranged on each platform 110P directly adjacent to each other (e.g., side by side) on each trough reflector 108 (as shown in Figures 1, 5, and 9). Each housing 300 may include a set of antenna elements 302 (e.g., patch antennas) arranged in a row on each housing 300 and facing each trough reflector 108. For example, each housing 300 or each antenna element 302 may be electronically steered to simultaneously send beams in different directions, whether independently or dependent on each other.

[0030] As shown in Figures 2, 10, and 11, the defined area 100 includes a container 118 having an internal area sized for a user (e.g., a technician) to walk into, navigate through, and exit from. For example, the container can include a shipping container, an intermodal container, a building, a tent, a cabin, a booth, a truck, a van, a bus, or other fixed or mobile structure (e.g., on land, in the air, or at sea). For example, the container 118 can be towable, placed on a truck bed, lifted by a crane, or assembled on site. The container 118 can be weatherproof (e.g., in rain, snow, wind, or desert environments) and may have various climate control mechanisms (e.g., air conditioning, vents, humidifiers, dehumidifiers). The container 118 can receive power from power lines, renewable energy sources, generators, or be battery-powered, any of which may be local to or remote from the container 118, whether inside or outside the defined area 100. Container 118 may include plastic, metal, cloth, rubber, wood, alloy, or other suitable material to avoid signal interference with radar pairs 120a and 120b. Container 118 is mounted on pad 104, but may be positioned away from pad 104. Container 118 is spaced apart (e.g., to avoid physical contact) from the first frame 106, the first trough reflector 108, the first 1D phase array 112, the second frame 106, the second trough reflector 108, and the second 1D phase array 112.

[0031] As shown in Figures 10-11, to operate the first and second radars, container 118 acts as an operations control center and includes logic (e.g., circuits, processors, memory, transmitters, receivers, signal splitters) located within its internal region. The logic communicates with the first and second 1D phase arrays and thus controls them. The logic includes a processor 134 (e.g., server, GPU, accelerator card) located within container 118, a transmitter 138 located within container 118, a set of radio frequency (RF) receivers 136 located within container 118, and a network interface 140 (e.g., RF fiber interface) located within container 118. The transmitter 138 and the set of RF receivers 138 are arranged within container 118 to communicate with (e.g., intercept) the processor 134 and the network interface 140.

[0032] As shown in Figure 11, the first 1D phase array 112 transmits a set of signals to the first trough reflector 108, so the processor 134 controls how these signals are generated and transmitted. Thus, outside (or inside) the container 118, there is a signal splitter 142 that receives data from the network interface 140 when it is first transmitted by the processor 134 and splits this data to distribute among the housings 300 for transmission by the antenna 302. Thus, the signal splitter 142 is coupled (e.g., electrically, communicatively) to the logic (e.g., the processor 134, the transmitter 138, the network interface 140) and the first 1D phase array 112 (e.g., the housings 300), so that the set of signals is generated based on the signal splitter receiving a set of data from the logic and splitting the set of data to distribute to the housings 300 of the first 1D phase array. However, since each of the first 1D phase array 112 and the second 1D phase array 112 receives reflections from space objects based on a set of signals, there exists a group of signal combiners 144 outside (or inside) the container 118. The group of signal combiners 144 combines the set of reflections from space objects and transmits them to the processor 134 via the network interface 140 and RF receivers 136. Note that the processor 134 transmits data to the transmitter 138 and receives data from each RF receiver 136. Similarly, note that the transmitter 138 transmits data to the network interface 140. Similarly, note that each RF receiver 136 receives data from the network interface 140. Furthermore, note that the network interface 140 transmits data to the signal splitter 142 and receives data from the combiners 144. Furthermore, note that the splitter 142 transmits data to the housing 300 and the combiners 144 receive data from the housing 300.

[0033] The first 1D phase array 112 transmits a set of signals via the first trough reflector 108 based on a first circular polarization and receives a set of reflections via the first trough reflector 108 based on a second circular polarization. The first circular polarization is not the same as the second circular polarization (e.g., quadrant offset). The first circular polarization can be the opposite of the second circular polarization. However, the second 1D phase array 112 receives a set of reflections via the second trough reflector 108 based on both the first and second circular polarizations.

[0034] As shown in Figure 8, each of the housings 300 is weather-resistant (e.g., in rain, snow, wind, or desert environments) and avoids signal interference between the first and second radars, as disclosed herein. Furthermore, each of the housings 300 has a group of cables / cords 310 extending outward from there (e.g., top, side). The cables / cords 310 are communicatively coupled to the logic of the container 118 (e.g., processor 134) and provide power to enable both various transmit / receive signal operations, as disclosed herein. Furthermore, each of the housings 300 has a first plate 304 and a second plate 306 arranged toward each other to form an L-shape or a T-shape. The first plate 304 houses antennas 302 (e.g., patch antennas) linearly arranged on it. As disclosed herein, the first plate 304 faces the respective trough reflectors 108 during transmit / transmission. The second plate 306 extends into each housing 300 and houses various circuits that drive / power the antenna 302. Therefore, when the antenna 302 is transmitting toward each trough reflector 108, the plate 306 is not visible from the outside due to its extension into each housing 300. Each of the housings 300 also contains an antenna 308 extending outward from there (the elemental antenna). The antenna 308 is not located on the plate 304 but is spaced there (e.g., within about 2 inches). The antenna 308 is configured to calibrate either the first radar or the second radar, as disclosed herein.

[0035] As shown in Figures 1, 2, 5, 7, 10, and 13, the defined region 100 includes a first radar pair 120a and a second radar pair 120b. The second radar pair 120b is similar to or identical to radar pair 120a (e.g., in shape, material, and operation). For example, the second radar pair 120b has a third radar and a fourth radar. The third radar has a third frame 106, a third trough reflector 108 (also called a parabolic cylindrical antenna, parabolic cylindrical antenna, or parabolic trough antenna), and a third 1D phase array 112. The third frame 106 is located within the defined region 100. The third trough reflector 108 is located within the defined region 100, fixed to the third frame 106, and has a third shape, a third longitudinal trough, and a third scale. Similar to the first radar pair 120a, the third 1D phase array 112 is positioned within a defined region 100 and supported by a third frame 106 on a third trough reflector 108, so that the third 1D phase array 112 transmits a set of signals via the third trough reflector 108 and receives a set of reflections from space objects based on the set of signals via the third trough reflector 108. Similarly, the fourth radar includes a fourth frame 106, a fourth trough reflector 108 (also called a parabolic cylindrical antenna, parabolic cylindrical antenna, or parabolic trough antenna), and a fourth 1D phase array 112. The fourth frame 106 is positioned within a defined region 100. The fourth trough reflector 108 is positioned within a defined region 100, fixed to the fourth frame 106, and has a fourth shape, a fourth longitudinal trough, and a fourth scale. Similar to the first radar pair 120a, the fourth shape is the same as the third shape, the fourth longitudinal trough extends parallel to the third longitudinal trough, and the fourth scale is smaller than the third scale. The fourth 1D phase array 112 is positioned within a defined region 100. Similar to the first radar pair 120a, the fourth 1D phase array 112 is supported by a fourth frame 106 on a fourth trough reflector 108, so that the fourth 1D phase array 112 does not transmit signals via the fourth trough reflector 108, but receives a set of reflections from space objects based on a set of signals via the fourth trough reflector 108.

[0036] However, it should be noted that, as shown in Figures 1, 2, 5, 10, and 13, the first radar pair 120a and the second radar pair 120b are oriented toward different (e.g., opposite) sides of the sky (e.g., different fields of view). This configuration can be achieved in various ways. For example, this configuration can be achieved when the second trough reflector 108 of the first radar pair 120a is positioned between the first trough reflector 108 of the first radar pair 120a and the fourth trough reflector 108 of the second radar pair 120b. Similarly, this configuration can be achieved when the fourth trough reflector 108 of the second radar pair 120b is positioned between the second trough reflector 108 of the first radar pair 120a and the third trough reflector 108 of the second radar pair 120b. Similarly, this configuration can be achieved when the second radar of the first radar pair 120a and the fourth radar of the second radar pair 120b are positioned between the first radar of the first radar pair 120a and the third radar of the second radar pair 120a. Furthermore, this configuration can be achieved when the Rx / Rx radar is positioned between the Tx / Rx radars. As a result, the set of reflections from space objects received by the first and second 1D phase arrays forms a first field of view, and the set of reflections received by the third and fourth 1D phase arrays forms a second field of view, where the first field of view does not overlap with the second field of view (coverage of various sky regions). This configuration is technically advantageous for various reasons. For example, if processor 134 is communicating with the first 1D phase array 112, the second 1D phase array 112, the third 1D phase array 112, and the fourth 1D phase array 112, processor 134 can be programmed to track space objects traveling in orbit within a first field of view (first radar pair 120a) and a second field of view (second radar pair 120b), so that space objects traveling in orbit can be detected at least twice from within a defined region 100 in a single path over the defined region 100. For example, there could be a 1D phase array Operations Control Center (OCC) interface. In particular, radar site 100 includes pairs of 1D phase array 112 radars illuminating a parabolic trough reflector 108.The trough reflector 108 consists of eight octopods 300, each capable of having eight transmission-receive antenna elements. The TxRx trough 108 (large) performs both transmission and reception, while the RxRx trough 108 (small) performs reception only. The TxRx trough 108 transmits and receives in a single (but opposite) polarization, while the RxRx trough 108 receives both polarizations. The troughs 108 are managed by the OCC 118, which generates transmission signals on a server using digital transceivers. The transmission signals are sent via fiber (e.g., RF over fiber) to 64-directional (or fewer or more) splitters that feed all eight octopods 300. Upon reception, the eight octopods 30 are grouped into batches of 8 (or fewer or more) and combined using passive optical techniques. The received signal is converted to RF in the OCC and transmitted to the server array 134 for processing. Similarly, in the case of the RxRx trough 108, the receiver signal is routed to the OCC 118.

[0037] With respect to the first radar pair 120a and the second pair 120b, the second longitudinal valley may extend parallel to the fourth longitudinal valley, or the first longitudinal valley may extend parallel to the third longitudinal valley. However, it should be noted that this configuration may differ if the second longitudinal valley does not extend parallel to the fourth longitudinal valley, or if the first longitudinal valley does not extend parallel to the third longitudinal valley.

[0038] As shown in Figures 11-31, another technical advantage of the defined region 100 having the first radar pair 120a and the second radar pair 120b appears when determining the initial orbit of a space object. In particular, the processor 130 can communicate with the first 1D phase array 112, the second 1D phase array 112, the third 1D phase array 112, and the fourth 1D phase array 112. Thus, as shown in Figures 15-20, the processor 134 can be programmed to cause the first 1D phase array 112 and the second 1D phase array 112 to detect a space object in the first field of view based on a set of reflections from a space object as received by the first trough reflector 108 and the second trough reflector 108. As shown in Figure 13, this is done based on the orbit of the space object (e.g., a satellite) intersecting the first field of view (1D) of the first radar pair 120a. Next, as shown in Figures 15-20, the processor 134 can determine the initial trajectory of the space object (e.g., trajectory data) based on this set of reflections. For example, this may be done by obtaining a first tracklet from the first trough reflector 108 and a second tracklet from the second trough reflector 108, selecting the best candidate (e.g., a dynamic measurement fitter) from each of the first and second tracklets, and then inferring the initial trajectory based on the best tracklet.

[0039] Initial orbits can be determined for a variety of reasons. For example, an initial orbit can be determined when a space object is not listed in a record of a set of records (e.g., a new space object) in a database (e.g., relational, in-memory, No-SQL, graphical, or cloud) located away from a processor (e.g., an Amazon cloud computing instance), where the set of records corresponds to a set of space objects other than the space object. For example, an initial orbit can be determined when a space object stored in a record of a database (e.g., a relational, in-memory, No-SQL, graphical, or cloud) located away from a processor (e.g., an Amazon cloud computing instance) lacks the corresponding orbital parameters for a given period (e.g., the data for the space object is old and the orbits of known space objects need to be reinitialized, and for a given period there are no measurements or only minimal measurements).

[0040] Regardless of the reason for determining the initial orbit, after the initial orbit of the space object has been determined, the processor 134 can create schedules for the third 1D phase array 112 and the fourth 1D phase array 112 to detect the space object. For example, the schedule may include expected dates, times, and positions of the space object for the second radar pair 120b. Next, the processor 134 can cause the third 1D phase array 112 and the fourth 1D phase array 112 to detect the space object in the second field of view based on the set of reflections from the space object received by the third trough reflector 108 and the fourth trough reflector 108 according to the schedule. This is done based on the orbit of the space object (e.g., a satellite) intersecting the second field of view (1D) of the second radar pair 120b. Next, the processor 134 can take actions associated with the initial orbit in response to the space object detected in the second field of view based on the set of reflections, according to the schedule. Some of these actions may include modifying the initial orbit so that a new orbit (e.g., orbital data) is formed, maintaining the initial orbit as is, or creating a new orbit (e.g., orbital data) based on the initial orbit. It should be noted that since a space object traveling in orbit can be detected at least twice from within the defined region 100 in a single path over the defined region 100, the processor 134 should be located within the defined region 100 to minimize latency and facilitate real-time processing. This is because there may be a short period of time (e.g., seconds, tens of seconds) between when the space object is detected by the first radar pair 120a and when it is scheduled to be detected by the second radar pair 120b.

[0041] For example, initial orbit determinations can be made based on multiple troughs 108. In particular, users (e.g., engineers, satellite operators, insurance companies) may want to be able to detect various uncataloged space objects (e.g., satellites) (e.g., not included in a database of cataloged space objects) at a single radar site 110 and form initial orbit determinations, allowing users to maintain a knowledge base of those space objects and add data for those space objects to a catalog (e.g., a database). Thus, a target (e.g., a satellite) may be detected in a first trough 108 or a pair of first troughs 108, as disclosed herein, and at least some measurements include a set of range, Doppler, and angle measurements. An initial orbit is then formed using these measurements (this needs to be done relatively quickly or in real time). Next, a prediction is made about when and where the target will cross a second trough 108 or a second pair of troughs 108. Then, the second trough 108 or a second pair of troughs 108 is scheduled to detect the target. Since passing through the second trough 108 or the second pair of troughs 108 may occur within tens of seconds after detection in the first trough 108 or the first pair of troughs 108, this should be done relatively quickly or in real time. Next, detection is performed in the second trough 108 or the second pair of troughs 108 based on the schedule. Then, the data is combined to form an initial trajectory determination, which can then be used for follow-up at other radar sites, whether similar or dissimilar to radar site 100.

[0042] As shown in Figures 22-31, the software architecture that enables the determination of the initial trajectory could consist of a group of scripts (e.g., Python, JavaScript), where one of these scripts performs various environment functions (e.g., file paths, basic settings, input / output library declarations, function calls), and another of these scripts performs various operations in the backend (e.g., time format conversion, trajectory equation conversion, cost function minimization, residual calculation).

[0043] As shown in Figure 23, the group of scripts is contained within a module that receives data from the configuration file and data from the respective tracklets of the first radar pair 120a and the second radar pair 120b. The data from the tracklets is supplied by preprocessors provided by each of the first radar pair 120a and the second radar pair 120b. Within the module, the scripts communicate bidirectionally with each other. For example, some measurements and fitted measurement pairs can be sent from one of the scripts (environment functions). Similarly, some fitted parameters, data from the Lambert solver, and fitted initial trajectory data can be sent from one of the scripts (backends). How these operations are performed is shown in Figures 24-31.

[0044] As shown in Figures 32-33, another technical advantage of having radar pair 120a or radar pair 120b becomes apparent when performing radar interferometry. In particular, the processor 134 can communicate with the first 1D phase array 112 (or third 1D phase array 112) and the second 1D phase array 112 (or fourth 1D phase array 112). Next, the processor can be programmed to perform radar interferometry based on the fact that a first 1D phase array 112 transmits a set of signals toward a detected space object via a first trough reflector 108 (or a third trough reflector 108) toward the space object, and that a set of reflections from the space object is received by the first 1D phase array 112 (or a third 1D phase array 112) via the first trough reflector 108 (or a third trough reflector 108) and the second 1D phase array 112 (or a fourth 1D phase array 112) via the second trough reflector 108 (or a fourth trough reflector 108). Radar interferometry may include transforming a time series set formed from a set of independent data channels into optimal range, radial velocity, radial acceleration, and x / y offset configurations.

[0045] As disclosed herein, by using the first radar pair 120a or the second radar pair 120b, it becomes possible to capture at least some of various interferometric metrics and determine with high accuracy the position of a target (e.g., space object, satellite) in the beam from each 1D phase array reflected by each trough reflector 108. Figure 32 shows the sample configuration of the received channel. Here, the TxRx trough reflector 108 (large) is sub-digitized into four groups (black dots). Note that the RxRx trough reflector 108 (small) has a single channel (blue dot). The RxRx trough reflector 108 is separated perpendicularly from the TxRx trough reflector 108, and such an arrangement provides its own interference baseline that provides sensitivity to the target's position in the y-direction. Subsampling of the aperture of the TxRx trough reflector 108 provides sensitivity to the target's position in the x-direction.

[0046] The separation of the trough reflectors 108 is chosen to create a clear image of the target location. If the trough reflectors 108 are too far apart, the resolution will increase, but the grid lobes will introduce ambiguity to the target location. By adding more RxRx trough reflectors 108, it becomes possible to achieve both higher accuracy and clearer positional information.

[0047] As shown in Figure 33, data from subchannels are combined to form an interferometric estimate of the target placement within the beam. Generally, the main goal is to transform a single time-series set from several independent data channels into optimal range, radial velocity, radial acceleration, and x / y offset placement (relative to the nominal beam center). Channel-specific phase residuals and channel-specific optimal signal levels are also generated. The channel-specific values ​​are useful for evaluating and updating phase calibration.

[0048] As shown in Figures 32-33, a critical input to the process is the initial detection of the target. Target data is identified by a standard (non-coherent) detection approach. Target data can also be provided by high-fidelity state vectors. Since the input includes estimates of range and radial velocity, it is not necessary to search extensively for these dimensions. Some sources for these values ​​include previously performed coherent or incoherent processing, or high-fidelity state vectors. For example, the errors in the input range / Doppler values ​​should be less than 1 km and 100 m / s, respectively, but this may vary as needed.

[0049] As shown in Figure 33, the processor 134 (e.g., an interferometer processor) can be programmed to mix the time series with nominal radial velocity and acceleration. Next, the processor 134 can demodulate the range of interest. Note that the number of ranges of interest is assumed to be less than approximately 1 km, although this can be changed if necessary. Next, the processor 134 can filter / downsample the data. Note that this is the only downsampling stage in this module due to the small number of ranges of interest and radial velocities. Next, the processor can perform interpolation within the ranges. Next, the processor 134 can compute the complex Fourier spectrum for each channel. Next, the processor 134 can interpolate to fit the range / velocity / acceleration to form the optimal complex visibility. Next, the processor can resample the visibility to a 2D UV grid and convert it into a composite image. Next, the processor 134 can identify peak signals in the composite image to find the optimal placement of the target. Next, the processor 134 can find the individual channel phase errors by self-calibration using the point source target placement and assumptions.

[0050] For example, as disclosed herein, this disclosure discloses a radar design for tracking space objects. The radar may include a plurality of reflectors 108, each of which may be illuminated by a 1D phase array feed 112 that can nominally operate in the S-band frequency range. The reflectors 108 may come in pairs, one capable of both transmitting and receiving (first radar) and the other capable of receiving only (second radar). This combination allows for the measurement of the distance, distance velocity (e.g., Doppler), and two-dimensional angle of a space object passing through the field of view (FOV). The latter can be measured using radar interferometry methods. For example, an instantiation may include at least two pairs of reflectors 108 on a given site (e.g., within a defined, zoned, or enclosed region 100). One pair 120a is oriented or pointed at an angle set in one direction (e.g., 20 degrees from the vertical), while the other pair 120b is oriented or pointed at an angle set in another direction (e.g., 20 degrees from the vertical), which can be the opposite direction. This combination allows for measuring the space object at multiple points in a single pass over the site as the space object crosses the FOV, and using this to construct the space object's initial orbit determination (IOD). Figures 1-33 show some dimensions, orientations, and parameters, but note that these dimensions, orientations, and parameters are illustrative and may vary, larger or smaller, as needed.

[0051] As shown in Figures 1-33, a site-level design 100 for a radar tracking system may include a pair of radar troughs 108. A radar trough 108 may include an array of electronic boxes 300 (or housings or containers) called eight-arm sections. Each trough 108 allows for precise measurement of the distance, distance velocity (e.g., Doppler), and angle of a space object. Furthermore, the radar tracking system may allow for methods of estimating the angle relative to a target (e.g., a space object) by digitizing a group of eight-arm sections 300 within a single trough, and by estimating a second angle relative to the target using Rx / Rx troughs, and combining them to accurately estimate the position of the target within the radar beam. The radar tracking system may also allow for a calibration measurement system.

[0052] As shown in Figures 1-33, the site design may include two (or more or fewer) large reflectors 108 (Tx / Rx reflectors), two (or more or fewer) small reflectors 108 (Rx / Rx reflectors), an operations control center 118 (e.g., in a shipping container or another enclosure), and cables / power plants / grounding / internet / fencing, etc. The reflectors 108 can come in pairs, i.e., one large Tx / Rx reflector 108 and a smaller Rx / Rx reflector 108. A Tx / Rx reflector 108 can transmit one type of circular polarization and receive the other. An Rx / Rx reflector 108 can receive both types of polarization. The Tx / Rx system can be divided into four (or more or fewer) segments to perform interference angle measurements (top / bottom of Figure 3). The Rx / Rx system allows for angle measurements in other dimensions (left / right of Figure 3).

[0053] As shown in Figures 1-33, the reflector 108 may include a steel beam frame 106 (or another material or another metal or alloy), multiple aluminum (or another material or another metal or another alloy) mesh panels attached to the reflector (e.g., fixed, bonded, fitted, interlocked, or glued), a catwalk 110 providing access to the focus zone, and transmission / receiving electronic equipment 300 (eight-arm section) in the focus zone illuminating the mesh panels.

[0054] The reflector 108 may be a parabolic trough, i.e., a cylindrical paraboloid, and may be designed to point at a specific angle (e.g., 20 degrees) from the vertical, while the focal array is oriented to point straight down towards the ground, pad, vehicle (e.g., on land, at sea, in the air), or platform on which the reflector 108 is housed. Note that the specific angle is not limited to approximately 20 degrees, but can be greater or smaller, whether vertical or non-vertical (e.g., between approximately 0 and approximately 90 degrees).

[0055] For a phase array radar to operate effectively, it may be necessary to accurately calibrate the electronic and cable phase delays of several, each, many, almost, or all paths. This signal calibration can be performed in several ways. One method of signal calibration has several, many, almost, or all eight-arm sections 300 having a calibration antenna 308 on top of them. Various switches on the eight-arm section 300 allow transmission from its antenna 308 to be received by element 302, transmission from element 302 to its antenna 308, and transmission from one eight-arm section 300 to another. Furthermore, signals can be looped at various parts of the RF chain to measure and calibrate their phase. Another method of signal calibration has several antennas 146 embedded in the surface of a reflector 108. Phase and amplitude can be measured by transmission from its calibration antenna 146 to be received at the eight-arm section elements 300, or by transmission from the eight-arm section 300 to be received at the calibration antenna 146. This configuration / technique, combined with a theoretical model of the phase array, can be used to calibrate the phase array. Another method of signal calibration involves having a calibration antenna in the far field of up to eight elements of the array, though this is more or less possible. Therefore, the calibration antenna can be used to measure the beam pattern of the eight-arm section 300 or the overlapping elements of the eight-arm section 300. An adaptive beamforming approach can be implemented, adjusting the beam pattern to optimize it for a theoretical model of the gain pattern. In this approach, only the signal intensity, rather than the phase of the resulting pattern, is available.

[0056] A given site can have many (more than 2) pairs of reflectors 108, such as 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, tens, hundreds, thousands, or more, including all intermediate values ​​between them. Furthermore, there can be multiple Rx / Rx troughs 108 for a given Tx / Rx trough (e.g., many-to-one correspondence). For example, there can be at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, tens, hundreds, thousands, or more, including all intermediate values ​​between them. These Rx / Rx 108 can be positioned adjacent to or around a given Tx / Rx 108, whether they are far apart in feet, yards, or miles, depending on the desired angle. These Rx / Rx108s can also be arranged sequentially or continuously, in a line (e.g., in a train configuration), or in a closed configuration (e.g., O, D, P) or an open configuration (e.g., U, C, J, S, L) relative to Tx / Rx.

[0057] As shown in Figures 1-33, there may be a system comprising a frame 106, a reflector 108 supported via the frame 106, a catwalk 110 extending over the reflector 108, and a phase array 112 supported via the catwalk 110 and oriented toward the reflector 108 so as to track space objects. The frame 106 can be supported via a volume of soil 102 or the ground. The frame 106 can be supported via a vehicle (e.g., on land, at sea, or in the air). The frame 106 can be supported via a sea platform, including any body of a water platform. The phase array 112 is a 1D phase array. The phase array 112 can operate in the S-band frequency range. The phase array 112 can be oriented toward the ground. The phase array 112 can transmit a plurality of first signals via the reflector 108 and can receive a plurality of second signals (e.g., reflections) via the reflector 108. The phase array 112 can avoid transmitting signals through the reflector 108, yet can still receive multiple signals (e.g., reflections) through the reflector 108. The reflector 108 may be a parabolic trough. The reflector 108 may be a cylindrical paraboloid. The phase array 112 and reflector 108 can be arranged such that the phase array 112 directs multiple signals to the reflector 108, and the reflector 108 reflects the signals at a non-vertical angle. The non-vertical angle may be between approximately 0 and 90 degrees, and within that range may be less than approximately 80 degrees, less than approximately 70 degrees, less than approximately 60 degrees, less than approximately 50 degrees, less than approximately 40 degrees, less than approximately 30 degrees, less than approximately 25 degrees, greater than approximately 5 degrees, greater than approximately 10 degrees, greater than approximately 15 degrees, between approximately 15 and approximately 25 degrees, approximately 20 degrees, or other. The phase array 112 and reflector 108 can be arranged such that the phase array 112 directs multiple signals to the reflector 108, and the reflector 108 reflects the signals at a vertical angle. The pad 104 can support the frame 106. The pad 106 can be arranged such that the reflector 108 extends between the pad 106 and the catwalk 110. The pad 106 can be arranged such that the reflector 108 extends between the pad 104 and the phase array 112.The transport container 118 includes a set of logic (e.g., circuits, cables, switches, amplifiers, encoders) for control communication with the phase array 112. The pad 104 can support the transport container 118. The phase array 112 can transmit circularly polarized light. The phase array 112 can enable measurement of interference angles along the vertical axis, where the interference angle is associated with a space object. The phase array 112 can enable measurement of angles along the horizontal axis, where the angle is associated with a space object. The frame 106 or catwalk 110 may include metal or alloy. The reflector 108 may include multiple mesh panels. At least one of the mesh panels may include metal or alloy. The catwalk 110 or reflector 108 can be assembled to the frame (e.g., fixed, fitted, interlocked, glued). The phase array 112 may include multiple housings 300 that are separate and distinct from one another. The housings 300 can be arranged longitudinally and linearly along the catwalk 110. At least one of the housings 300 can accommodate a plurality of antennas 302 linearly spaced apart from each other. At least one of the antennas 302 may be a patch antenna. The housings 300 can be positioned along a catwalk so that the antennas are linearly aligned together. At least one of the housings 300 can accommodate a calibration antenna 308. At least one of the housings 300 can accommodate a plurality of patch antennas 302 and a plurality of switches, where the switches are coupled to the calibration antenna 308 and the patch antennas 302 such that (1) the calibration antenna 308 transmits a first signal and at least one of the patch antennas 302 receives a second signal, and (2) at least one of the patch antennas 302 transmits a third signal and the calibration antenna 308 receives a fourth signal. At least two of the housings 300 can transmit at least two signals between themselves and each other. At least one of the housings 300 loops signals through various parts of a radio frequency (RF) chain to measure or calibrate signal phases.The reflector 108 may include a trough with a surface into which the antenna 146 may be embedded. The antenna 146 may transmit a signal to the phase array 112 so that at least one of the phase of the signal or the amplitude of the signal is measured. The phase array 112 may transmit a signal to the antenna 146 so that at least one of the phase of the signal or the amplitude of the signal is measured. The catwalk 110 may be supported via A-shaped posts. For example, the catwalk 110 may span between multiple A-shaped posts. The catwalk 110 may be supported via non-A-shaped posts (e.g., J-shaped, T-shaped, L-shaped, J-shaped, V-shaped, M-shaped, C-shaped, U-shaped, D-shaped). For example, the catwalk 110 may span between multiple posts. Regardless of shape, the posts may include metal, alloy, plastic, wood, rubber, or other materials. The catwalk 110 can be suspended over the reflector via multiple lines (e.g., ropes, cables, chains).

[0058] As shown in Figures 1-33, there may be a system comprising a radiation reflector 108 and a phase array 112 including a first housing 300 and a second housing 300. The first housing 300 can accommodate a plurality of first patch antennas 302 facing the parabolic reflector 108, where the first patch antennas 302 are linearly spaced apart from each other. The second housing 300 can accommodate a plurality of second patch antennas 302 facing the parabolic reflector 108, where the second patch antennas 302 are linearly spaced apart from each other. The first housing 300 may be positioned adjacent to the second housing 300 such that the first patch antennas 302 and the second patch antennas 302 are linearly aligned together to receive a plurality of signals through the parabolic reflector 108. The signals are multiple first signals, and the first housing 300 is positioned adjacent to the second housing 300 such that the first patch antenna 302 and the second patch antenna 302 are linearly aligned together and transmit multiple second signals via the parabolic reflector 108. The phase array 112 may be a 1D phase array.

[0059] As shown in Figures 1-33, there may be a system comprising a first assembly including a first frame 106, a first reflector 108 supported via the first frame 106, a first catwalk 110 extending over the first reflector 108, and a first phase array 112 supported via the first catwalk 110 and oriented toward the first reflector 108. The first phase array 112 can transmit a plurality of first signals via the first reflector 108, and the first phase array 112 can receive a plurality of second signals (e.g., reflections from space objects based on the first signals) via the first reflector 108. The system may comprise a second assembly including a second frame 106, a second reflector 108 supported via the second frame 106, a second catwalk 110 extending over the second reflector 108, and a second phase array 112 supported via the second catwalk 110 and oriented toward the second reflector 108. The second phase array 112 does not transmit signals via the second reflector 108, but receives a plurality of third signals (e.g., reflections from space objects based on the first signal) via the second reflector 108. The first signal is transmitted perpendicular to the general direction, and the second and third signals are received perpendicular to the general direction.

[0060] As shown in Figures 1-33, there may be a system comprising a first radar pair 120a including a first assembly and a second assembly. The first assembly includes a first frame 106, a first reflector 108 supported via the first frame 106, a first catwalk 110 extending over the first reflector 108, and a first phase array 112 supported via the first catwalk 110 and oriented toward the first reflector 108. The first phase array 112 transmits a plurality of first signals via the first reflector 108, and the first phase array 112 receives a plurality of second signals (e.g., reflections from space objects based on the first signals) via the first reflector 108. The second assembly includes a second frame 106, a second reflector 108 supported via the second frame 106, a second catwalk 110 extending over the second reflector 108, and a second phase array 112 supported via the second catwalk 110 and oriented toward the second reflector 108. The second phase array 112 does not transmit signals via the second reflector 108, and the second phase array 112 receives a plurality of third signals (e.g., reflections from space objects based on the first signals) via the second reflector 108. The system may include a second radar pair 120b including a third assembly and a fourth assembly. The third assembly includes a third frame 106, a third reflector 108 supported via the third frame 106, a third catwalk 110 extending over the third reflector 108, and a third phase array 112 supported via the third catwalk 110 and oriented toward the third reflector 108. The third phase array 112 transmits a plurality of fourth signals via the third reflector 108, and the third phase array 112 receives a plurality of fifth signals (e.g., reflections from space objects based on the fourth signals) via the third reflector 108. The fourth assembly includes a fourth frame 106, a fourth reflector 108 supported via the fourth frame 106, a fourth catwalk 110 extending over the fourth reflector 108, and a fourth phase array 112 supported via the fourth catwalk 110 and oriented toward the fourth reflector 108.The fourth phase array 112 does not transmit signals via the fourth reflector 108, but the fourth phase array 112 receives a plurality of sixth signals (e.g., reflections from space objects based on the fourth signals) via the fourth reflector 108. The system may comprise a defined region 110 (e.g., a fenced region, a confined region, an ascending region, a visually distinguishable region) including a first radar pair 120a and a second radar pair 120b. The first radar pair 120a is oriented obliquely perpendicular to a first direction, and the second radar pair 120b is oriented obliquely perpendicular to a second direction (e.g., different directions, non-overlapping directions, opposite directions) so that it can track space objects at multiple points (e.g., a V-system).

[0061] The various corresponding structures, materials, actions, and equivalents of all means or step-plus-function elements in the following various claims are intended to include any structures, materials, or actions for performing a function in combination with elements of other claims specifically claimed. Various embodiments have been selected and described to best illustrate the various principles of this disclosure and their various practical applications, and to enable those skilled in the art to understand this disclosure in terms of various embodiments with various modifications suitable for a particular intended use.

[0062] This detailed description is provided for illustrative and explanatory purposes, but is not intended to be exhaustive and / or limited to the various forms of this disclosure disclosed. Many modifications and variations in technique and structure will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure, as described in the various claims below. Such modifications and variations are therefore intended to be part of this disclosure. The scope of this disclosure is defined by the various claims, including known and unpredictable equivalents of this disclosure at the time of filing.

[0063] (Note 1) It is a system, The defined domain and A first frame arranged within the defined region, A first trough reflector positioned within the defined region, wherein the first trough reflector is fixed to the first frame, and the first trough reflector has a first shape, a first longitudinal valley, and a first scale, A first 1D phase array disposed within the defined region, wherein the first 1D phase array is supported by a first frame on a first trough reflector, and so the first 1D phase array transmits a set of signals via the first trough reflector and receives a set of reflections based on the set of signals via the first trough reflector. A second frame placed within the defined region, A second trough reflector positioned within the defined region, wherein the second trough reflector is fixed to the second frame, and the second trough reflector has a second shape, a second longitudinal valley, and a second scale, wherein the second shape is the first shape, the second longitudinal valley is parallel to the first longitudinal valley, and the second scale is smaller than the first scale, A system comprising: a second 1D phase array disposed within the defined region, wherein the second 1D phase array is supported by the second frame on the second trough reflector, so that the second 1D phase array does not transmit any signals via the second trough reflector and receives a set of reflections based on the set of signals via the second trough reflector. (Note 2) The system according to Appendix 1, wherein the first 1D phase array forms a first line, the second 1D phase array forms a second line, and the first line is parallel to the second line. (Note 3) A first leg fixed to the first frame within the defined region, wherein the first leg extends onto the first trough reflector, A second leg fixed to the first frame within the defined region, wherein the second leg extends onto the second trough reflector, The system according to Appendix 1, further comprising a platform fixed to the first leg and the second leg within the defined region, wherein the platform extends over the first trough reflector along a first longitudinal valley, and the platform accommodates the first 1D phase array. (Note 4) The system according to Appendix 1, wherein the first 1D phase array includes a set of housings arranged on the platform immediately adjacent to one another on the first trough reflector, and each member of the set of housings includes a set of antenna elements arranged in a row on each housing and facing the first trough reflector. (Note 5) A first leg fixed to the second frame within the defined region, wherein the first leg extends onto the second trough reflector, A second leg fixed to the second frame within the defined region, wherein the second leg extends onto the second trough reflector, The system according to Appendix 1, further comprising a platform fixed to the first leg and the second leg within the defined region, wherein the platform extends over the second trough reflector along the second longitudinal valley, and the platform accommodates the second 1D phase array. (Note 6) The system according to Appendix 5, wherein the second 1D phase array includes a set of housings arranged on the platform immediately adjacent to one another on the second trough reflector, and each member of the set of housings includes a set of antenna elements arranged in a row on each housing and facing the second trough reflector. (Note 7) A container located within the defined area, wherein the container is spaced apart from the first frame, the first trough reflector, the first 1D phase array, the second frame, the second trough reflector, and the second 1D phase array, and the container has an internal area sized to allow a user to walk into. The system according to Appendix 1, further comprising logic disposed within the internal region, wherein the logic communicates with a first 1D phase array and a second 1D phase array, and so the logic controls the first 1D phase array and the second 1D phase array. (Note 8) The system according to Appendix 7, wherein the logic includes a processor located within the container, a transmitter located within the container, a set of radio frequency (RF) receivers located within the container, and a network interface located within the container, wherein the transmitter and the set of RF receivers are arranged to communicate with the processor and the network interface. (Note 9) The system according to Appendix 7 further comprises a signal splitter coupled to the logic and the first 1D phase array, wherein the set of signals is generated based on the signal splitter receiving a set of data from the logic and splitting the set of data. (Note 10) The system as described in Appendix 1, wherein the first 1D phase array transmits a set of signals via the first trough reflector based on a first circular polarization and receives a set of reflections via the first trough reflector based on a second circular polarization, wherein the first circular polarization is not identical to the second circular polarization. (Note 11) The system as described in Appendix 10, wherein the first circularly polarized light is opposite to the second circularly polarized light. (Note 12) The system according to Appendix 10, wherein the second 1D phase array receives the set of reflections via the second trough reflector based on the first and second circularly polarized signals. (Note 13) The aforementioned set of signals is the first set of signals, and the aforementioned set of reflections is the first set of reflections. A third frame positioned within the defined region, A third trough reflector positioned within the defined region, wherein the third trough reflector is fixed to the third frame, and the third trough reflector has a third shape, a third longitudinal valley, and a third scale, A third 1D phase array disposed within the defined region, wherein the third 1D phase array is supported by the third frame on the third trough reflector, and so the third 1D phase array transmits a second set of signals via the third trough reflector and receives a second set of reflections based on the second set of signals via the third trough reflector. A fourth frame arranged within the defined region, A fourth trough reflector positioned within the defined region, wherein the fourth trough reflector is fixed to the fourth frame, and the fourth trough reflector has a fourth shape, a fourth longitudinal valley, and a fourth scale, wherein the fourth shape is the third shape, the fourth longitudinal valley is parallel to the third longitudinal valley, and the fourth scale is smaller than the third scale. The system further comprises a fourth 1D phase array positioned within the defined region, wherein the fourth 1D phase array is supported by the fourth frame on the fourth trough reflector, so that the fourth 1D phase array does not transmit any signals via the fourth trough reflector, but receives a set of second reflections based on the second set of signals via the fourth trough reflector. The system as described in Appendix 1, wherein the second trough reflector is positioned between the first trough reflector and the fourth trough reflector, the fourth trough reflector is positioned between the second trough reflector and the third trough reflector, the first set of reflections forms a first field of view, the second set of reflections forms a second field of view, and the first field of view does not overlap with the second field of view. (Note 14) The system further comprises a processor that communicates with the first 1D phase array, the second 1D phase array, the third 1D phase array, and the fourth 1D phase array, the processor The system according to Appendix 13, which is programmed to track a space object traveling in orbit within the first and second fields of view, so that the space object traveling in orbit can be detected at least twice from within the defined region in a single path over the defined region. (Note 15) The system as described in Appendix 13, wherein the second longitudinal valley is parallel to the fourth longitudinal valley. (Note 16) The system as described in Appendix 13, wherein the first longitudinal valley is parallel to the third longitudinal valley. (Note 17) The system as described in Appendix 13, wherein the second longitudinal valley is not parallel to the fourth longitudinal valley. (Note 18) The system as described in Appendix 13, wherein the first longitudinal valley is not parallel to the third longitudinal valley. (Note 19) The system further comprises a processor that communicates with the first 1D phase array, the second 1D phase array, the third 1D phase array, and the fourth 1D phase array, the processor Based on the first set of reflections, the first 1D phase array and the second 1D phase array are made to detect space objects within the first field of view, Based on the first set of reflections, the initial trajectory of the space object is determined, After the initial orbit of the space object is determined, schedules for the third 1D phase array and the fourth 1D phase array are created to detect the space object. In accordance with the aforementioned schedule, based on the second set of reflections, the third 1D phase array and the fourth 1D phase array are made to detect the space object in the second field of view, The system according to Appendix 13, programmed to take an action associated with the initial trajectory in response to the space object detected in the second field of view, based on the second set of reflections, in accordance with the schedule described above. (Note 20) The system according to Appendix 19, wherein the action includes modifying the initial trajectory so that a new trajectory is formed. (Note 21) The system according to Appendix 19, wherein the aforementioned action includes maintaining the initial trajectory. (Note 22) The system according to Appendix 19, wherein the aforementioned action includes creating a new trajectory based on the initial trajectory. (Note 23) The system as described in Appendix 19, wherein the processor determines the initial orbit of a space object that is not listed in any record of a set of records in a database located away from the processor, and the set of records corresponds to a set of space objects other than the space object. (Note 24) The system according to Appendix 19, wherein the processor determines the initial orbit of the space object recorded in a database record located away from the processor, and the record lacks orbital parameters corresponding to the space object for a predetermined period of time. (Note 25) The system further comprises a processor that communicates with the first 1D phase array and the second 1D phase array, wherein the processor The system according to Appendix 1, programmed to perform radar interferometry based on the first 1D phase array transmitting the set of signals to a detected space object via the first trough reflector, and the first 1D phase array via the first trough reflector and the second 1D phase array via the second trough reflector receiving the set of reflections from the space object. (Note 26) The system described in Appendix 23, which includes radar interferometry to convert a time series set from a set of independent data channels into an optimal range, radial velocity, radial acceleration, and x / y offset configuration.

Claims

1. A system, The defined domain and A first frame arranged within the defined region, A first trough reflector positioned within the defined region, wherein the first trough reflector is fixed to the first frame, and the first trough reflector has a first shape, a first longitudinal valley, and a first scale, A first 1D phase array disposed within the defined region, wherein the first 1D phase array is supported by the first frame on the first trough reflector, so that the first 1D phase array transmits a set of signals via the first trough reflector and receives a set of reflections based on the set of signals via the first trough reflector, wherein the set of signals is a first set of signals and the set of reflections is a first set of reflections, A second frame arranged within the defined region, A second trough reflector positioned within the defined region, wherein the second trough reflector is fixed to the second frame, and the second trough reflector has a second shape, a second longitudinal valley, and a second scale, wherein the second shape is the first shape, the second longitudinal valley is parallel to the first longitudinal valley, and the second scale is smaller than the first scale, A second 1D phase array disposed within the defined region, wherein the second 1D phase array is supported by the second frame on the second trough reflector, and so the second 1D phase array does not transmit any signals via the second trough reflector, and receives a set of reflections based on the set of signals via the second trough reflector, A third frame arranged within the defined region, A third trough reflector positioned within the defined region, wherein the third trough reflector is fixed to the third frame, and the third trough reflector has a third shape, a third longitudinal valley, and a third scale, A third 1D phase array disposed within the defined region, wherein the third 1D phase array is supported by the third frame on the third trough reflector, and so the third 1D phase array transmits a second set of signals via the third trough reflector and receives a second set of reflections based on the second set of signals via the third trough reflector, A fourth frame arranged within the defined region, A fourth trough reflector positioned within the defined region, wherein the fourth trough reflector is fixed to the fourth frame, and the fourth trough reflector has a fourth shape, a fourth longitudinal valley, and a fourth scale, wherein the fourth shape is the third shape, the fourth longitudinal valley is parallel to the third longitudinal valley, and the fourth scale is smaller than the third scale, A fourth 1D phase array disposed within the defined region, wherein the fourth 1D phase array is supported by the fourth frame on the fourth trough reflector, and so the fourth 1D phase array does not transmit any signals via the fourth trough reflector and receives the second set of reflections based on the second set of signals via the fourth trough reflector, A system comprising, wherein the second trough reflector is positioned between the first trough reflector and the fourth trough reflector, the fourth trough reflector is positioned between the second trough reflector and the third trough reflector, the first set of reflections forms a first field of view, the second set of reflections forms a second field of view, and the first field of view does not overlap with the second field of view.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first 1D phase array forms a first line, the second 1D phase array forms a second line, and the first line is parallel to the second line.

3. A first leg fixed to the first frame within the defined region, wherein the first leg extends onto the first trough reflector, A second leg fixed to the first frame within the defined region, wherein the second leg extends onto the second trough reflector, The system according to claim 1, further comprising a platform fixed to the first leg and the second leg within the defined region, wherein the platform extends over the first trough reflector along a first longitudinal valley, and the platform accommodates the first 1D phase array.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the first 1D phase array includes a set of housings arranged on the platform in immediate proximity to one another on the first trough reflector, and each member of the set of housings includes a set of antenna elements arranged in a row on each housing and facing the first trough reflector.

5. A first leg fixed to the second frame within the defined region, wherein the first leg extends onto the second trough reflector, A second leg fixed to the second frame within the defined region, wherein the second leg extends onto the second trough reflector, The system according to claim 1, further comprising a platform fixed to the first leg and the second leg within the defined region, wherein the platform extends over the second trough reflector along the second longitudinal valley, and the platform accommodates the second 1D phase array.

6. The system according to claim 5, wherein the second 1D phase array includes a set of housings arranged on the platform in immediate proximity to one another on the second trough reflector, and each member of the set of housings includes a set of antenna elements arranged in a row on each housing and facing the second trough reflector.

7. A container positioned within the defined area, wherein the container is spaced apart from the first frame, the first trough reflector, the first 1D phase array, the second frame, the second trough reflector, and the second 1D phase array, and the container has an internal area sized to allow a user to walk into. The system according to claim 1, further comprising logic disposed within the internal region, wherein the logic communicates with a first 1D phase array and a second 1D phase array, and so the logic controls the first 1D phase array and the second 1D phase array.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the logic includes a processor located in the container, a transmitter located in the container, a set of radio frequency receivers (RF receivers) located in the container, and a network interface located in the container, the transmitter and the set of RF receivers being arranged to communicate with the processor and the network interface.

9. The system according to claim 7, further comprising a signal splitter coupled to the logic and the first 1D phase array, wherein the set of signals is generated based on the signal splitter receiving a set of data from the logic and splitting the set of data.

10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first 1D phase array transmits a set of signals via the first trough reflector based on a first circular polarization and receives a set of reflections via the first trough reflector based on a second circular polarization, wherein the first circular polarization is not identical to the second circular polarization.

11. The system according to claim 10, wherein the first circularly polarized light is opposite to the second circularly polarized light.

12. The system according to claim 10, wherein the second 1D phase array receives the set of reflections via the second trough reflector based on the first circular polarization and the second circular polarization.

13. The system further comprises a processor that communicates with the first 1D phase array, the second 1D phase array, the third 1D phase array, and the fourth 1D phase array, the processor The system according to claim 1, which is programmed to track a space object traveling in orbit within the first and second fields of view, so that the space object traveling in orbit can be detected at least twice from within the defined region in a single path over the defined region.

14. The system according to claim 1, wherein the second longitudinal valley is parallel to the fourth longitudinal valley.

15. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first longitudinal valley is parallel to the third longitudinal valley.

16. The system according to claim 1, wherein the second longitudinal valley is not parallel to the fourth longitudinal valley.

17. The system according to claim 1, wherein the first longitudinal valley is not parallel to the third longitudinal valley.

18. The system further comprises a processor that communicates with the first 1D phase array, the second 1D phase array, the third 1D phase array, and the fourth 1D phase array, the processor Based on the first set of reflections, the first 1D phase array and the second 1D phase array are made to detect space objects within the first field of view, Based on the first set of reflections, the initial trajectory of the space object is determined, After the initial orbit of the space object is determined, schedules for the third 1D phase array and the fourth 1D phase array are created to detect the space object. In accordance with the above schedule, based on the second set of reflections, the third 1D phase array and the fourth 1D phase array are made to detect the space object in the second field of view, The system according to claim 1, programmed to take an action associated with the initial trajectory in response to the space object detected in the second field of view, based on the second set of reflections, in accordance with the schedule described above.

19. The system according to claim 18, wherein the action includes modifying the initial trajectory so that a new trajectory is formed.

20. The system according to claim 18, wherein the action includes maintaining the initial trajectory.

21. The system according to claim 18, wherein the action includes creating a new trajectory based on the initial trajectory.

22. The system according to claim 18, wherein the processor determines the initial orbit of a space object that is not listed in a record of a set of records in a database located away from the processor, and the set of records corresponds to a set of space objects other than the space object.

23. The system according to claim 18, wherein the processor determines the initial orbit of the space object recorded in a database record located away from the processor, and the record lacks orbital parameters corresponding to the space object for a predetermined period of time.

24. The system further comprises a processor that communicates with the first 1D phase array and the second 1D phase array, wherein the processor The system according to claim 1, wherein the first 1D phase array is programmed to perform radar interferometry on a detected space object, based on the first 1D phase array transmitting the set of signals to the space object via the first trough reflector, and the first 1D phase array via the first trough reflector and the second 1D phase array via the second trough reflector receiving the set of reflections from the space object.

25. The system according to claim 22, wherein radar interferometry includes converting a time series set from a set of independent data channels into an optimal range, radial velocity, radial acceleration, and x / y offset arrangement.

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