Conceptualization of development of onboard laser radar systems for spacecraft

The paper discusses a new approach to development of onboard Laser Ranging Systems (LRS) used during spacecraft rendezvous and docking. This approach takes into account requirements for the equipment and specifics of its application. The paper describes a procedure for performing computational evaluations used in the LRS conceptualizing, which is based on the existing experience in development of various onboard LRS for future spacecraft and the results of studies on their implementation. On the basis of the well-known laser ranging equation, expressions were obtained for evaluating the dynamic range of LRS measurements for various geometries and reflective properties of the passive object. The paper generalizes the existing experience of ground tests of laser ranging equipment, which can be used in tests and developmental testing of future onboard LRS and provides a description of the required equipment.