Examining the effects of on-orbit aging of SL-12 rocket bodies using visible band spectra with the MMT telescope

The characterization of deep space debris has posed a significant challenge in the study of space objects. To be most effective, characterization must be performed quickly and under non-ideal operational conditions, generally using non-resolved techniques. Multi-color photometry and the resultant color indices offer the potential to rapidly discriminate between debris and intact space objects such as rocket bodies and satellites. However, these studies are not well informed by high resolution spectra of these same objects, due to the lack of prior measurements with large astronomical telescopes. We present a spectroscopic study of orbital debris aimed at characterizing changes over time in object properties, using ground-based spectroscopy of several similar rocket bodies in geosynchronous orbit, launched at different times. High and moderate resolution spectroscopy is not routinely collected by SSA resources. Nonetheless, several researchers have collected satellite spectra for research purposes. Several researchers have also noted the progressive reddening of spacecraft surfaces.