Prototype Space Fence Now Tracking Actual Orbital Debris 33
coondoggie writes "Lockheed Martin says the prototype system it is developing to track all manner of space debris is now tracking actual orbiting space objects. The Space Fence prototype includes new ground-based radars and other technologies to enhance the way the U.S. detects, tracks, measures and catalogs orbiting objects and space debris with improved accuracy, better timeliness and increased surveillance coverage. 'Space Fence will detect, track and catalog over 200,000 orbiting objects and help transform space situational awareness from being reactive to predictive. The Air Force will have more time to anticipate events potentially impacting space assets and missions. Our net-centric design approach allows Space Fence to be easily integrated into the broader U.S. Space Surveillance Network of sensors already operated by the Air Force.'"
Weird name (Score:5, Insightful)
Seems like a better name would be "SpaceWatch" or something. The word "Fence" implies it can block debris . When I think of tracking I typically don't think of fences.
Still, sounds like a neat project.
What one man calls, "obiting space debris" . . . (Score:5, Insightful)
. . . another man calls, "my spy satellite" . . .
As in:
"Hey, you destroyed my spy satellite!"
"Oh, sorry, it looked like space debris to me. I was just trying to tidy up a bit."