Sensor Tasking
Sensor Tasking acquires targeted observations from commercial sensor networks for RSOs where catalog accuracy or GNSS telemetry is insufficient. Tasking is centrally managed by Satcat, and the resulting data is fused into orbit determination.
Requests are served on a best-effort basis. Whether one produces observations depends on weather, sensor visibility, and the size of the object.
Sensor Tasking requires a Satcat Operations Enterprise tier subscription.
Requesting Tasking
Request tasking is available from an RSO's page and from the operator card on a conjunction event. It opens Request partner network tasking for the selected RSO.
A request needs an Enterprise subscription and a remaining tasking allowance. Where either is missing, the control reads Contact Support and opens a support email instead.
A tracking recommendation of Request Tracking (High Priority) or Request Tracking (Low Priority) means Satcat assesses additional observations as worthwhile for that CDM. To learn more, see Tracking Recommendations.
When Tasking Helps
- Acquisition support for LEOP and commissioning scenarios
- Custody restoration for drifting or untracked RSOs
- Conjunction state refinement prior to maneuver planning
- OD enhancement for non-GNSS or degraded telemetry RSOs
Results
Acquired observations are ingested into Satcat's orbit determination system, fused with telemetry where available, and returned as OEMs with covariance under standard OD processing. Any active conjunction event for the RSO is updated, and the resulting ephemeris is available in the tasking catalog.
OD outputs derived from tasking are private to the requesting operator unless designated for coordination visibility. To learn more, see Data Privacy.