Boeing Starliner Innovation: Latest Advancements in Daytime Satellite Tracking

Boeing 's Starliner spacecraft recently approached the International Space Station in an exciting event monitored by telescopes during the day . This marked the first astronaut mission with the spacecraft , showcasing a touch - and - go approach with some thruster issues encountered . The advanced daytime satellite tracking technology captured an amazing view of Starliner during its approach to the space station using a specialized computer - controlled mount to compensate for the Earth 's rotation.

The Laser & Electro - Optical Systems team at Boeing demonstrated the value of daytime satellite tracking with this high - profile event . By using mainly commercial - off - the - shelf hardware modified with Boeing 's technology , the system offers exceptional performance in monitoring satellites around the clock . This enhanced capability provides heightened awareness of the skies , improved communication , and real - time threat monitoring.

Boeing 's telescope system tracked the ISS fly over the U.S.-Mexico border from over 259 miles away , showcasing the precision and efficiency of the technology . The ground - based observations are typically limited to periods around sunrise and sunset due to sunlight overloading the telescope sensors . However , with daytime satellite tracking , around - the - clock monitoring is now possible , allowing for better early warning capabilities and more accurate intelligence.

The Laser & Electro - Optical Systems team uses proprietary software to predict satellite orbits and captures imagery using short - wave infrared sensors to filter out blue light emitted by the sun . This process enhances the quality of the images , making satellites more visible and easier to detect . The team believes that this new capability will unlock various opportunities and applications for ground - based tracking systems , including technologies like satellite laser communication.

Satellite observation plays a crucial role in monitoring activities in orbit and developing innovative solutions for challenges in space technology . Boeing 's team is dedicated to providing novel solutions to their customers and believes that the advanced tracking systems will open up new possibilities in the field of satellite tracking and communication . With this groundbreaking technology , the future of space exploration and observation looks promising.