Lessons Learned on Mega-Constellation Deployments and Impact to Space Domain Awareness

The breakneck expansion of multi-payload launches in low Earth orbit (LEO) has seen significant escalation over
the last three years in the Space Domain Awareness (SDA) enterprise. The uptick in satellite deployment
frequency, gradation of mega-constellation deployments utilizing electric propulsion, and surge in metric
observation density from the Space Surveillance Network (SSN) have driven major system enhancements to
ensure spaceflight safety. Beginning with the launch phase, new tactics, software, and procedures have been
developed over the last few years to optimize the tasking of the SSN and ensure custody of all recently launched
satellites that are added to the space catalog. Ensuring appropriate tasking levels were pivotal during the satellite
separation phase, which necessitated updates to the mission systems for improved delineation between clustered
satellites in a short window of time. The improved incorporation of utilizing satellite owner/operator-provided
ephemeris coupled with critical code improvements have revolutionized how we maintain custody of Earth
orbiting objects. The exponential population growth of Low-Earth orbiting satellites have also increased the
quantity of Conjunction Data Messages sent out to partners such as the Trajectory Operations Group (TOPO) in
Johnson Space Center. We will discuss the need for continued collaboration between the National Aeronautics
and Space Administration (NASA) and other mega-constellation satellite operators to safeguard human
spaceflight operations. Lastly, we will discuss how mega-constellations are driving best practices for safe
operations across the space community.