Have you ever wondered how many satellites are orbiting Earth at any given moment? Or how experts track and analyze these objects to ensure the safe operation of our space-based infrastructure? If so, then you're in for a treat! Introducing the AstriaGraph (http://astria.tacc.utexas.edu/AstriaGraph/), a comprehensive resource for Space Situational Awareness (SSA) that's available to the public. In this blog post, we'll explore the purpose of AstriaGraph, its features, and how it helps researchers, engineers, and space enthusiasts stay up-to-date on all things happening in our Earth's orbit.
What is AstriaGraph?
AstriaGraph is a project developed by the Astria team at the University of Texas at Austin, with support from the Texas Advanced Computing Center (TACC). Its main goal is to provide an accessible, interactive, and visually appealing platform that enables users to track, analyze, and visualize all the known objects orbiting Earth. AstriaGraph combines data from various sources, including the United States Strategic Command, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), and the Satellite Catalog (SATCAT), to deliver accurate and up-to-date information on the spatial distribution and trajectories of these objects.
Features and Functionality
AstriaGraph offers a wealth of features that cater to both professionals and enthusiasts alike. Some of the key features include:
a. Interactive 3D visualization: AstriaGraph provides an interactive 3D visualization of Earth's orbit, allowing users to explore the positions and trajectories of all tracked objects, including satellites, debris, and rocket bodies.
b. Comprehensive data: AstriaGraph collates and processes data from multiple sources to provide detailed information on each object, such as its launch date, orbital parameters, country of origin, and more.
c. Search and filter capabilities: Users can search for specific objects or filter the display based on various criteria, such as object type, country, altitude, or inclination.
d. Real-time updates: AstriaGraph receives continuous updates from its data sources, ensuring that users have access to the most current information on space objects.
e. Customizable display: Users can personalize the AstriaGraph interface to suit their preferences, choosing between different map projections, visualization styles, and data layers.
The Importance of Space Situational Awareness
Space Situational Awareness is crucial for maintaining the safety and functionality of our increasingly space-dependent society. As the number of satellites and other objects in orbit continues to grow, the risk of collisions and space debris generation increases. AstriaGraph plays a vital role in helping researchers, engineers, and decision-makers monitor and analyze the orbital environment to minimize these risks and ensure the sustainability of our space-based infrastructure.
AstriaGraph is an invaluable tool for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Earth's orbital environment. By providing a comprehensive and accessible platform for tracking, analyzing, and visualizing space objects, AstriaGraph contributes to the advancement of Space Situational Awareness and helps safeguard the continued growth and development of our space-based capabilities. So go ahead, explore the AstriaGraph website (http://astria.tacc.utexas.edu/AstriaGraph/) and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Earth's orbit!
Further reading:
http://astria.tacc.utexas.edu/AstriaGraph/
https://dspace.mit.edu/bitstream/handle/1721.1/145098/Slavin-mslavin-sm-tpp-2022-thesis.pdf?isAllowed=y&sequence=1
https://pubs.aip.org/aapt/pte/article/61/1/15/2868880/Using-Space-Junk-to-Measure-G
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