Focus-M – A Satellite-based Missile Early Warning System
- Paper number
IAC-05-B1.2.05
- Author
Mr. Sascha Mahal, OHB-System AG, Germany
- Coauthor
Mr. Carsten Tobehn, OHB-System AG, Germany
- Coauthor
Mr. Martin Kassebom, OHB-System AG, Germany
- Coauthor
Mr. Andreas Gehlenborg, OHB-System AG, Germany
- Year
2005
- Abstract
The proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and the increasing availability of advanced delivery systems, such as ballistic missiles, poses one of the major threads in the upcoming years against Europe and its allies. Current defence systems affect on the terminal (re-entry) phase of approaching missiles or warheads, thus covering only a very constrained area of defence. In the nearer future the technology for engaging earlier flight phases will be available with the advantage of an expanded area of defence. The major common challenge of all defence strategies is the short time-frame for preparation of counter measures. Besides effective reconnaissance and rapid response capabilities, these mechanisms demand large scene surveillance for early state detection. A Feature which can only be accomplished from very high altitudes - by a satellite system. Groundbased or even airborne alternatives suffer from obstructed fields of view (Earth shape) and atmospheric disturbances. For an investigation of the technical challenges of spaceborne missile detection, OHB-System has conducted an experimental study into a satellite-based missile early warning system, named Focus-M - funded by the German Federal Office of Defense Technology and Procurement. Focus-M aims at providing near real-time early warning capacity for initiation of missile defence systems and population warning with high temporal resolution on a globe scope by detecting the significant boost signature of missile propulsions. The Focus-M study was initiated in January 2003 starting with an experimental phase based upon the DLR-satellite BIRD. With BIRD unprecedented spaceborne infrared imagery in different test scenarios could be obtained. Furthermore the detection of a missile plume from space was demonstrated. The experimental experience contributed valuable information for incorporation into the concept development of the Focus-M system. The system comprises 28 small satellites in a moderately inclined Low Earth Orbit Walker constellation, which was analysed to be the most cost efficient approach. This constellation allows almost full global coverage with stereo capacity in medium latitudes. The approach is complemented by a dedicated sensor and bus concept reflecting the demanding observation requirements of high temporal, spatial and spectral resolution. Further elaboration merged into a design-approach for a demonstrator for applying and testing all critical feature of the envisaged system in the frame of in orbit verification. This paper presents the highly promising outcome of the study in terms of feasibility, cost-efficiency and performance.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-05-B1.2.05.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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