Detection of Small GEO Debris by Use of the Stacking Method.

Abstract

In this paper we propose a new method known as “the stacking method” for detecting small pieces of unknown GEO debris, in which several images taken using a CCD camera are used to detect this debris. With this method, the streaks of stars are eliminated completely and there is a significant decrease in sky background fluctuation. This makes very dark debris not visible on a single image detectable. We tested this method using the 45 cm telescope at the Yatsugatake Observatory and a small CCD camera. One possible piece of GEO debris of about 1m in size was detected as a result of analysis using the stacking method. With this method, observation using the facilities at the Bisei Space Guard Center, a 1m telescope and a SITe CCD camera, may be expected to detect GEO debris of around 10cm in size.