Russia to deploy new systems to detect space objects

The News Minute | November 18, 2014 | 8:10 am ISTRussia will deploy dozens of new-generation early warning stations by 2018 to detect space objects such as debris and meteorites, Russia's Aerospace Defence Forces (VKO) said Monday.New Okno (meaning Window) optoelectronic space surveillance systems have passed state tests, VKO spokesperson Alexei Zolotukhin was quoted as saying by Xinhua."Four optoelectronic space surveillance and data gathering stations have been put into service. The system is fitted out with advanced target detection television equipment and new-generation computers with Russian-made hardware. "All these will make the system capable of controlling the entire range of space altitudes and processing data," Zolotukhin said.He added that the system would help the VKO control a larger number of space objects and detect small-sized ones.This would make possible the early detection of space debris and meteorites, which could endanger orbital manned flights, Zolotukhin said.Over 10 new monitor stations are to be deployed throughout Russian regions by 2018.The Okno space surveillance station is located in the city of Nurak in southwestern Tajikistan, at a height of 2,216 metres above sea level in mountains. The system is designed to automatically detect space objects at altitudes from 120 to 40,000 kms.IANS