Orbital Footprinting as a Component of a Space Traffic Management System

Paper number

IAC-08.E3.4.5

Author

Mr. Cian Curran, France

Coauthor

Ms. Angeline Asangire Oprong, University of Bremen, Germany

Year

2008

Abstract

The ecological footprint is becoming a well known and understood tool  for measuring ones impact on the environment. The genius of the idea is the manner in which each person is issued a personalized ‘footprint’ which can be compared directly with that of any person on the planet. It is based on a persons use of public transport as opposed to a personal car for example or by measuring ones consumption of oil for the purposes of heating.
This paper will discuss how this concept could be employed for use in a Space traffic management system. An ‘orbital footprint’ would be a measure of the impact a spacecraft has on its orbital environment from launch to end of life, in terms of launcher type, bandwidth use, orbit and pollution. In that regard, a footprint would be assigned to each spacecraft deployed. This system would serve to illustrate to satellite developers how their system compares ‘ecologically’ to others and would inform prospective customers as to the orbital and environmental impact of the product they are about to buy. 
It is like energy ratings on buildings or mileage for cars. This can also aid in educating the consumer as to the potential for unmanaged satellite proliferation in orbit to become hazardous to functioning spacecraft and the Earth and Orbital environments.
Such a system would require the release of specific data pertaining to each spacecraft, with particular attention being paid to those of a sensitive nature.
To get this system implemented and online, there will no doubt be a series of legal and managerial issues to be considered and examined. Technically however, it should not be a problem. The paper will discuss this concept and its role in raising the awareness that will pave the way for the establishment of space traffic management.  

Abstract document

IAC-08.E3.4.5.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-08.E3.4.5.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.