Maximum likelihood detection of unresolved moving targets

Maximum likelihood estimation and decision theory is applied to the problem of detecting unresolved moving targets with a particular emphasis on space surveillance applications. A general formulation is derived which accounts for fluctuating targets, extended optical point spread functions (PSFs), and long frame integration times such that target images can form streaks within a single image. Probability of false alarm and of detection curves are generated from field data and simulations and compared with theoretical predictions.