Los Alamos boffins invent speedometer for satellites
Briefly

The researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory have created a Spacecraft Speedometer designed to measure the velocity of satellites in orbit, crucial for avoiding potential collisions as the satellite population surges. In collaboration with the US Air Force Academy, this device features two laminated plasma spectrometers positioned to detect charged particles, allowing for accurate speed calculations based on particle impacts. The system has already been deployed on the International Space Station, highlighting its readiness for real-world applications in satellite management and space traffic control.
The Spacecraft Speedometer, developed at LANL, precisely measures satellite velocity in orbit, addressing fears of collisions amid rising numbers of active satellites.
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