Space-based Identification Method for Space Targets Assisted by Cataloging Information

In order to realize the perception and early warning of long-distance space targets used space-based visible light detection equipment, this paper proposes an identification method assisted by cataloging information. The method uses the two-line orbit elements (TLE) published by the North American Aviation Command as the reference cataloging information, and combines the SGP4/SDP4 model to predict the position of space target on the image at specified time. Then, match the predicted position with the actual position at the same time. If error between the two positions satisfied with the threshold, recording the two positions. When the number of star images accumulated to a fixed value, correlating targets between multi-frames, If the same target is associated for multiple consecutive frames, considering that it has been identified. Simulation result shows that this method can identified long-distance space targets based on space-based visible light detection equipment, which is helpful for satellites to judge potential collision threats in advance. The experiment of star sensor on the ground further verified the feasibility of this method.