Improved model of the optical brightness of satellites with several reflective surfaces

This Thesis presents advanced modeling techniques for calculating the apparent brightness of satellites as observed from Earth. The proposed approach incorporates the effects of both direct solar illumination and indirect reflections from the Earth's surface, significantly improving upon previous models. Considering all satellite chassis surfaces, this model offers a comprehensive and realistic representation of the complex interplay of light scattering and reflection. To achieve accurate estimates of satellite apparent brightness, this work employs Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Functions (BRDF) to characterize the reflective properties of satellite components. Integrating BRDF and multi-surface modeling substantially enhances traditional methods, allowing for a more precise understanding of how light interacts with the satellite's surfaces. The mathematical foundations of the multi-surface approach are thoroughly detailed, and the model's predictive performance is validated through comparisons with observations of selected Starlink satellites. The results demonstrate a marked improvement over existing satellite brightness models, highlighting the effectiveness of this comprehensive approach. Furthermore, this empirical model provides critical insights into satellite brightness across various solar angles, which is essential for developing strategies to mitigate the impact of satellite constellations on ground-based astronomy. This work aims to contribute to the sustainable coexistence of astronomical research and the expanding field of space exploration and commercialization. By offering a robust tool for accurately predicting satellite brightness, this thesis supports the ongoing efforts to minimize the adverse effects of satellite constellations on astronomical observations while promoting the sustainable advancement of space technologies.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Aerospace Engineering

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2024

Author dc:creator

• Jangid, Nayan

Contributors dc:contributor

• Eggl, Siegfried

• Satellite Brightness
• Photometric Modeling
• Satellite Reflectance
• Satellite Light Pollution

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2024 Nayan Jangid

Language dc:language

en, eng

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/125826

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/oai-pmh?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=etdms&identifier=oai%3Awww.ideals.illinois.edu%3A2142%2F125826