Telescopic Imaging Optics for Dim Objects Near Bright Sources
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for daytime satellite imaging are hindered by glare and scattered light from bright sources like the sun, moon, or earth, making it difficult to observe dim objects in space.
Innovation Solution
The system employs optical systems with light protection structures and filters to block wavelengths below a threshold, using Earthshine for illumination and adaptive optics to reduce glare, enabling accurate imaging of dim objects near bright sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If solar illumination is used for daytime satellite imaging, then the satellite can be illuminated and observed, but glare and scattered light from bright sources make it difficult to observe dim objects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary illumination source (Earthshine or artificial lighting) between the bright sun and the dim satellite target. This mediator provides sufficient illumination for satellite observation without creating the glare and scattered light problems caused by direct solar illumination, enabling clear imaging of dim objects during daytime
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and removes the harmful bright light sources (sun, moon, earth) from the imaging path by using telescopic systems with specialized optical paths and illumination geometries that exclude these bright sources while retaining the dim satellite targets in the field of view
2Quantity of substance
If traditional optical systems are used without wavelength filtering, then all spectral energy is captured, but scattered light from bright sources contaminates the image
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies wavelength-selective filtering with different transmission characteristics at different wavelengths. The optical system captures spectral energy selectively, allowing longer wavelengths (less scattered) to pass while blocking shorter wavelengths (more scattered), thereby improving image quality by removing scattered light contamination locally in the spectral domain
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the spectral parameter of the captured light by using wavelength-selective filters that transmit only specific wavelength ranges. This parameter change filters out the scattered light components while retaining the useful signal from the satellite, improving the signal-to-noise ratio
3Object-affected harmful factors
If observation is limited to dawn or dusk hours to avoid bright light sources, then scattered light is reduced, but observation time is severely limited to only 4 hours per day
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the previously harmful Earthshine and atmospheric scattering into beneficial illumination sources for daytime satellite observation. By using these normally problematic light sources as intentional illumination, the system enables satellite imaging during daytime hours when scattered light would traditionally be prohibitive, thereby extending observation time from 4 to 16 hours per day
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables daytime imaging of dim objects with improved Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR), increasing observation time from 4 hours to 16 hours per day and providing accurate orbital elements in minutes, suitable for LEO, MEO, GSO, and GEO satellites.
Implementation Method 1
processing/filtering light received via the beam path such that wavelengths below a threshold wavelength are ignored
Implementation Method 2
a light protection structure configured to reduce impingement upon the imager of spectral energy outside and/or inside the FOV
Implementation Method 3
Earthshine reflected from an object of interest
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments are directed to telescopic apparatus, systems and methods for imaging dim objects near bright objects, include daylight imaging of satellites and other objects, a platform/telescope configured for daylight imaging of satellites and other objects, as well as modifications thereto configured to perform specific functions individually and/or in conjunction with other platforms/devices (e.g., radar tracking devices).