High-fidelity simulations to predict the utility of space object multispectral imagery

This study examined the efficacy of computer driven modeling to derive and display the anticipated results of a hypothetical multispectral imaging telescope utilized to determine material decomposition/contamination of near-earth orbit space objects. Imagery was simulated based on a hypothetical multispectral telescope and a satellite CAD. Image processing was performed on the simulations to determine if material decomposition/contamination could be ascertained through observed material property variations. The study examined the affects of decreased spatial resolution and increased specularity to determine limitations of the hypothetical telescope's imagery. Keywords: multispectral, material decomposition/contamination, space object, simulation, adaptive optics