Research Support for the Analysis and Management of Celestial Backgrounds Data

Abstract : TerraSystems, Inc. (TSI) supported the validation and analysis of celestial backgrounds data collected by various sensors (including MSX) and assisted in incorporating the results of these analyses into improved computer models which were then integrated into existing Celestial Backgrounds codes. The results of this activity will improve the quality of the data and the ability to accurately simulate and predict the behavior of the infrared environment on operational spaced borne systems. TSI's effort included: (1) methods of improving the quality of collected data through error analysis and post-event correction, especially with respect to removing known and unknown asteroids from the MSX point and source list and improving the celestial background asteroid model with new sources of data from SIMPS, ISO, and polarimetry and (2) developing techniques useful in promoting collaborative analysis by geographically dispersed teams either in small groups or at large, topical meetings.