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Orbit determination
Definition of orbit prediction
Orbit prediction involves the use of mathematical models and computational techniques to forecast the future positions and trajectories of orbital objects, such as satellites, space debris, or any other object in space.
This capability leverages data from various sources, including ground-based radars, telescopes, and satellite sensors, to accurately calculate the gravitational forces, atmospheric drag, and other perturbative forces acting on an object.
Predicted orbital paths are crucial for ensuring safe operations in space, allowing for the anticipation of potential collisions and enabling effective space traffic management.
It also supports satellite operators in planning maneuvers, assessing mission feasibility, and determining optimal launch windows.
Orbit prediction is integral to space situational awareness and maintaining space domain awareness, providing critical insights into the dynamics and behavior of objects in space.
Why orbit determination and prediction matter for safer operations
Orbit determination and orbit prediction turn raw observations into a current state estimate and a forward trajectory for satellites and debris.
They are foundational to collision risk assessment, conjunction screening, maneuver planning, and coordinated space traffic management, especially in LEO where atmospheric drag and frequent perturbations can quickly degrade ephemeris accuracy.
Reliable predictions reduce uncertainty, enable timely warnings, and support safer, more efficient operations for single missions and large constellations.
Look Up and SYNAPSE capabilities for LEO tracking and collision avoidance
Look Up detects and tracks LEO objects with its SORASYS radar network to feed timely, accurate measurements into orbit determination and prediction workflows.
SYNAPSE fuses Look Up sensor data with external sources, maintains catalogues and object ID cards, and delivers alerts and collision avoidance support, including tailored maneuver recommendations and collision avoidance predictions with a 99.9% accuracy rate.
Together, these capabilities help operators protect assets, coordinate responses, and scale day-to-day STM decisions securely via API, interface, or on-premises deployment.
We deliver space situational awareness (SSA) and space domain awareness (SDA) solutions that help secure active satellites and ensure safe operations in the ever-growing expanse of space.