A transfer learning approach to space debris classification using observational light curve data. (April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Allworth, James; Windrim, Lloyd; Bennett, James; Bryson, Mitch
• Is Part Of: Acta astronautica. Volume 181(2021)
• Page Start: 301
• Page End: 315
• Publication Date: 2021-04
• Subjects: Space debris -- Space debris characterisation -- Space Situational Awareness -- Light curves -- Machine learning -- Transfer learning; Astronautics -- Periodicals; Outer space -- Exploration -- Periodicals; Astronautics; Periodicals; 629.405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.actaastro.2021.01.048
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0094-5765

Abstract

Abstract: This paper presents a data driven approach to space object characterisation through the application of machine learning techniques to observational light curve data. One-dimensional convolutional neural networks are shown to be effective at classifying the shape of objects from both simulated and real light curve data. To the best of the authors' knowledge this is the first generalised attempt to classify the shape of space objects using real observational light curve data. It is also demonstrated that transfer learning is successful in improving the overall classification accuracy on real light curve datasets. The authors develop a simulated light curve dataset using a high fidelity three-dimensional ray-tracing software. The simulator takes in a textured geometric model of a Resident Space Object as well as its ephemeris and uses ray-tracing software to generate photo-realistic images of the object that are then processed to extract the light curve. Models that are pre-trained on the simulated dataset and then fine-tuned on the real datasets are shown to outperform models purely trained on the real datasets. This result indicates that transfer learning will allow organisations to effectively utilise deep learning techniques without the requirement to build up large real light curve datasets for training. Highlights: Develops a high-fidelity light curve simulator based on ray-tracing software. Generates a large simulated dataset to develop and test classification techniques. Develops method for space object shape classification from real light curve data. Presents shape classification results from both real and simulated datasets. Demonstrates transfer learning from simulated data improves results on real datasets.