Advancing Federated Satellite Systems performance: A collaborative method for improved object detection in space

This paper introduces a novel collaborative framework to enhance object detection and tracking in space using Federated Satellite Systems (FSS), addressing the increasing challenge of managing large volumes of artificial objects, including satellites and debris. The proposed Collaborative Satellite Network (CSN) approach centers on the strategic exchange of observational task among satellites to streamline data transfer, reduce power consumption, and improve detection accuracy. Each satellite independently calculates a reward function (RF) at specific time steps, which serves as a performance metric based on factors such as angular separation, observable object distance and detectability, power availability, data storage, availability of the schedule and of the instrumentation onboard. Instead of transmitting extensive datasets, only the satellite ID and the highest RF value are selectively propagated across the network. This approach reduces unnecessary data exchange, conserving bandwidth and power while supporting timely, informed decision-making crucial for collaborative space situational awareness. By limiting data transmission to key observations, this framework optimizes communication efficiency and accelerates the detection process, fostering a more agile and responsive satellite network capable of addressing emerging space threats. This paper not only highlights the potential of federated satellite systems to advance space situational awareness but also provides a scalable solution for future collective space operations, laying a foundation for more sustainable, efficient, and cooperative satellite-based detection and tracking efforts.     «

This paper introduces a novel collaborative framework to enhance object detection and tracking in space using Federated Satellite Systems (FSS), addressing the increasing challenge of managing large volumes of artificial objects, including satellites and debris. The proposed Collaborative Satellite Network (CSN) approach centers on the strategic exchange of observational task among satellites to streamline data transfer, reduce power consumption, and improve detection accuracy. Each satellite in...     »