An analysis of the 2016 Hitomi breakup event

• DOI: 10.1186/s40623-017-0633-3
• Publication Date: 2017-04-18T07:04:54Z
• Authors: Sven Flegel; James Bennett; Michael Lachut; Marek Möckel; Craig Smith
• Keywords: QB275-343; QE1-996.5; Geology; 01 natural sciences; Kessler syndrome; 3. Good health; G; Fragmentation; 13. Climate action; 0103 physical sciences; Geography. Anthropology. Recreation; Debris; Spacecraft; Geodesy

The breakup of Hitomi (ASTRO-H) on 26 March 2016 is analysed. Debris from the fragmentation used to estimate time event by propagating backwards and estimating close approach with parent object. Based this method, predicted have occurred at approximately 01:42 UTC 2016. Gaussian variation parameters equations based instantaneous orbits are solved gain additional insight into on-orbit position test an alternate determining epoch location. A conjunction analysis carried out between all catalogued objects which were in orbit around estimated anomaly. Several debris approaches Hitomi; however, there no evidence support was caused a both largest events—the Iridium 33–Cosmos 2251 2009 intentional destruction Fengyun 1C 2007—is involved indicating persistent threat these events subsequent space missions. To quantify magnitude potential conjunction, resulting collision modelled using EVOLVE-4 model. characteristics two-line element data. This indicative assets that mission planners face due growing population. impact actual environment investigated associated currently contained United States Strategic Command’s catalogue. look active missions orbital vicinity reveals Hubble Space Telescope among spacecraft may be immediately affected new debris.