Light Detection And Ranging (LiDAR)
Research within the laboratory is focused on the development of Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave (FMCW) Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) systems operating at a wavelength of 1550 nm. These systems utilize coherent detection methods to attain high sensitivity and immunity to noise interference [1]. The design and modeling efforts are directed toward LiDAR payloads intended for specific space applications with demanding performance criteria. Current investigations address two principal areas: space situational awareness augmentation [2, 3] and relative navigation for distributed satellite systems [1].
An Ultra-Long-Range LiDAR system is under investigation as a potential onboard payload for satellites, aiming to mitigate the risks associated with orbital debris. Existing approaches often depend on ground-based surveillance, which can involve uncertainties leading to potentially avoidable collision avoidance maneuvers. The proposed LiDAR concept is intended to provide spacecraft with an autonomous capability for detecting and characterizing potentially hazardous debris during conjunction events, targeting operational ranges extending to several hundred kilometers. The acquisition of precise trajectory data with meter-level resolution is expected to refine collision risk assessments, thereby supporting more informed operational decisions and contributing to the safety of space activities.
Distributed Synthetic Aperture Radar (DSAR) systems, comprising multiple cooperating satellites, represent a significant development in Earth observation capabilities. However, their operation necessitates highly accurate inter-satellite position knowledge, often requiring millimeter-level precision that exceeds the performance of standard Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) techniques. An FMCW LiDAR sensor is being developed to provide the required high-accuracy relative navigation data for satellite formation control in DSAR missions. This sensor is designed to measure inter-satellite distances up to 2 km with range and lateral resolutions specified at the millimeter level. Such metrology capabilities are necessary for maintaining the precise formations required for DSAR applications, including high-resolution interferometry and 3D tomographic imaging.
References:
[1] M. Tagliente, G. Brunetti, and C. Ciminelli, “Design of FMCW LiDAR for Formation Flying Control in Distributed SAR Applications,” presented at the XXIII Conf. Sensors Microsyst., Trento, Italy, Feb. 11-14, 2025.
[2] G. Campiti, M. Tagliente, G. Brunetti, M. N. Armenise, and C. Ciminelli, “Debris Detection and Tracking Through On-Board LiDAR,” in Lect. Notes Electr. Eng., vol. 1036, Springer, 2023, pp. 204–209. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-30333-3_31. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-30333-3_31
[3] M. Tagliente, G. Campiti, G. Brunetti, M. N. Armenise, and C. Ciminelli, “Spaceborne LiDAR for Debris Detection and Tracking,” in Lect. Notes Electr. Eng., vol. 1005, Springer, 2023, pp. 1–6. doi: 10.1007/978-3-031-26066-7_27. https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-26066-7_27