Space Domain Awareness

SDA

Next Generation Space Domain Awareness

Real-time tracking and rapid orbit solutions for dynamic space environments

Modern space operations demand real‑time understanding. Objects maneuver unpredictably, and the most valuable information is what can be sensed and interpreted immediately. ARA’s Space Domain Awareness (SDA) technologies deliver that insight through advanced angular‑vector processing and rapid observational software.

ARA's SDA Capabilities at a Glance

Use full angular vectors: position, velocity, and acceleration from a single passive optical sensor

Proven performance from LEO to cislunar distances

Real‑time or near‑real‑time characterization of orbit changes

Rapid orbit determination at speeds far beyond traditional angles‑only methods

Event‑based processing extracts complete angular vectors from a single optical sensor.

High‑precision angular measurements

Works with low‑cost optical hardware

Enables downstream rapid orbit determination and maneuver detection

Patent‑pending technology that detects and characterizes maneuvers the moment they occur.

Real‑time identification of trajectory changes

Improved custody during rapid or unexpected maneuvers

Earlier warnings for dynamic space events

A patented technique producing accurate orbits in seconds to minutes – an order of magnitude faster than conventional orbit determination.

Orbit determination with just one look

Requires only a single passive optical sensor

No a priori orbit information needed

Supports both tactical and persistent monitoring

Optical tracking solutions designed for extreme ranges out to 1.5 million km. Demonstrated performance on Artemis II, including:

  • Orion capsule tracked out to 334,000 km
  • Separation of cubesats and adapter ring captured at 73,000 km

Detects and tracks dim, distant cislunar objects

Handles complex three‑body dynamics

Get in Touch

Find out more about our SDA capabilities.

For more information, contact Jason (Speedy) Niederhauser at JNiederhauser@ARA.com

Contact Us