Fraunhofer Institute for High Frequency Physics and Radar Techniques FHRThe future of space observation lies in multistatic radar systems – and Fraunhofer FHR is the partner to harness this key technology. With the world's leading Tracking and Imaging Radar TIRA, the institute already offers a unique infrastructure that is continuously expanded through strategic collaborations.
First Step: Enhancing Space Situational Awareness Capabilities through Innovative Bi-static Radar Configurations
Bi-static radar configurations enable a significant expansion of the performance of existing space situational awareness systems. This results in higher resolution and more precise object characterization. In addition, the identification of the geometric properties of satellites and space objects is improved. Furthermore, smaller objects can be detected and measured that are only partially or not at all detectable with monostatic systems. Moreover, spatially distributed receiving systems enable extended observation angles, and data quality is significantly increased and made more robust through redundant measurement geometries.
Linking TIRA and the Wetterstein Millimeter Telescope
On the path toward multistatic systems, Fraunhofer FHR, together with Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg (JMU), is planning an unprecedented bi-static configuration: The space radar TIRA is planned to be linked with the Wetterstein Millimeter Telescope in the future. The radio telescope planned by the JMU as part of a large national and international cooperation, including Fraunhofer FHR, is to be erected on the Zugspitze at an altitude of 2,650 meters. Its state-of-the-art radio telescope technology is intended to be available both as a single telescope and as part of telescope networks to the German multidisciplinary research community as well as the international radio astronomy community. The system will offer surface accuracy in the micrometer range, enabling measurements of the highest precision, combined with an optimal site elevation for atmospheric transparency and access to networked interdisciplinary research infrastructure. In networked radar operation with TIRA, the system will serve as an (additional) highly sensitive receiving unit and contribute to obtaining improved space situational awareness data. The WMT project is currently in the application phase.
Enhanced Space Situational Awareness for the Space Industry, Defense, and Research Sectors
By linking TIRA and WMT in the future, an innovative platform would emerge that offers tailored, enhanced space situational awareness results – for customers including:
- Satellite operators: Detailed attitude assessment analysis of your assets in orbit
- Space agencies: More precise space situational awareness and collision avoidance
- Defense sector: Identification and characterization of unknown objects
- Research institutions: High-resolution data for space debris research
- On-orbit servicing companies: Space object analysis for proximity maneuvers
On the Path to a Multistatic Radar System
The bistatic configuration of TIRA and WMT is only one planned part of further efforts toward a larger, networked TIRA system: Fraunhofer FHR is currently developing step by step a multistatic radar system with multiple distributed receivers to further significantly increase the performance of space observation. We offer project partners clear technological and strategic advantages. Fraunhofer FHR possesses decades of expertise in radar and high-frequency technology, providing a reliable foundation for demanding development projects. Furthermore, TIRA is available as a global reference system for space observation that can be directly integrated into joint ventures. Partners also gain access to cutting-edge research and the latest technologies, thereby reducing technological risks and shortening development timelines. At the same time, we offer flexible and application-oriented cooperation models for industry, government agencies, and research. In addition, we ensure an efficient transfer structure from fundamental research to operational applications, so that research results can be swiftly translated into usable systems and services.