Design and Optimization of a Retroreflector Array for Satellite Laser Ranging

Integration with TU Delft New Satellite and Ground Station

Master Thesis (2024)
Author(s)

G. Sofi (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)

Contributor(s)

S. Speretta – Mentor (TU Delft - Space Systems Egineering)

R. Jain – Mentor (TU Delft - Space Systems Egineering)

S.M. Cazaux – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Planetary Exploration)

Ines Uriol Balbin – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Group Uriol Balbin)

Faculty
Aerospace Engineering
More Info
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Publication Year
2024
Language
English
Graduation Date
15-11-2024
Awarding Institution
Delft University of Technology
Programme
Aerospace Engineering
Faculty
Aerospace Engineering
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Abstract

The design of an optimized retroreflector array for satellite laser ranging (SLR) is critical for enhancing satellite tracking accuracy and providing a passive space segment backup for conventional attitude determination systems. This thesis documents the research aimed at developing an effective retroreflector array for the new TU Delft platforms: Delfi-Twin and the Da Vinci satellite. The goal is to enable SLR measurements via both the International Laser Ranging Service (ILRS) network and the laser communication terminal at Delft University. Following a structured approach, the most suitable array configurations were identified through a Probability of Visibility (PoV) simulation. Consequently, a link budget analysis was performed, coupling the selected arrays with the considered ground stations to define the required retroreflector size to enable SLR measurements. Improvements to the Delft laser communication terminal have also been proposed to enhance its SLR capabilities. Future work will focus on qualifying the acquired retroreflectors and finalising the holder structure for satellite integration.

Files

Thesis_Final_GS.pdf
(pdf | 24 Mb)
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