Retro-modulator links with a mini-rover
An optical sensors web in a star pattern is formed and tested utilizing modulating retro-reflectors, where a multitude of senors was simulated by a retro-modulator on a mini-rover.
modulating retro-reflector↗
Engineering topics
Gilbreath, G. C.
Publications and source records attributed to Gilbreath, G. C..
Analysis of SLR Targets for JASON
This report provides preliminary results pertaining to the applicability to the JASON program of a retroreflector array designed, built, and space qualified by the Naval Research Laboratory for Low Earth Orbiting spacecraft. In this report, we will describe the assumptions we used for link analysis as they pertain to Passes 44 and 85 over Capraia Island. We provide figures and discussions pertinent to a single retroreflector's performance and the array's performance over the site. We also include a description and photo of the array itself, as well as the test and levels used to space qualify the array.
RANGE FINDING↗
Ground based laser ranging for satellite location
In this article, we describe a new satellite laser ranging capability which is a joint effort between the Naval Research Laboratory and Air Force Optical Tracking Facility at Malabar, Florida. Initial measurements off LAGEOS indicate that uncorrected radial range rms values of 8 mm are readily achievable. The number of photoelectron counts are on the order of 180 which are off by an order of magnitude from predicted values.
Gilbreath, G. C.↗