HAVOC – High Altitude Vehicle Observations Constellation: An Innovative Approach to Guarding Frontiers
- Paper number
IAC-17,B5,2,3,x40789
- Author
Dr. Larry Paxton, The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, United States
- Year
2017
- Abstract
We present a study of a new concept for using small satellites for Earth observation. Small satellites appear to, at least from the commercial market standpoint, to be accepted to a greater degree than ever before. However, the market has failed to develop at the pace one might expect. This is due to the inherent opportunities and limitations of a small spacecraft as an observing platform. There are many challenges associated with observations from space including coverage and persistence. We’ve examined a different concept; here we use satellites, high altitude balloons and long-duration, high altitude unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to drive down cost and provide a new capability for tracking shipping in the Arctic. HAVOC is a disaggregated, inhomogeneous constellation of stratospheric and space sensors utilizing communications technologies that solve complex surveillance and border protection issues. For our study, we used tracking of Arctic shipping as the raison d’etre for the creation of a capability because it is a case that is difficult to address otherwise. The Arctic is a region that is becoming more accessible as the area of summer polar ice decreases and as the thickness of the winter ice diminishes as well. While small Earth observing satellites have an important role, their value may be augmented by adding UAS and other groundbased sensors to the solution space.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-17,B5,2,3,x40789.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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