Sensor Fusion Techniques for Uncertainty Reduction in Rendezvous and Proximity Operations

Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) is becoming crucial in the future of the space sector. However, its applications are still limited to a few cases compared with the total number of Resident Space Objects (RSO). This work aims to contribute to the expansion of RPO by addressing its efficiency, robustness, and applicability. We utilize sensor fusion techniques that combine measurements and information from multiple sources to mitigate the uncertainty retrieved by each sensor independently. This uncertainty reduction is evaluated in an RPO model based on the Clohessy-Wiltshire equations, which account for various perturbation effects. The contributions provide a model for evaluating RPO under uncertainty, utilizing sensor fusion techniques to reduce uncertainty, and examining their impact on RPO performance.