ISROs future missions will need tracking of multiple objects. For this purpose, a Multi-Object Tracking Radar or MOTR is being realized indigenously, which will contribute to Range safety, Impact point monitoring, recovery and re-entry missions. The MOTR will track different stages of launch vehicles simultaneously during nominal and non-nominal missions. The tracking data will be used for computing the Instantaneous Impact Points (IIPs) of the descending/separated objects of the launch vehicle, more accurately.
The configuration of MOTR is derived based on long range tracking requirement of 50 cm x 50 cm object size at a slant range of 1000 km for objects and 30 cm x 30 cm size at a slant range of 800 km in LEO for space-debris. The MOTR operates in L-band frequency (1.3 to 1.4 GHz) with active phased array antenna, capable of tracking ten objects simultaneously. The radar is designed to have a maximum peak power of 830 kW with 4608 radiating antenna elements.
Further, MOTR will also provide the data related to close approach of space debris to the remote sensing satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and to plan the collision avoidance manoeuvres of these satellites, thus contributing to the safe operation of ISROs Space Assets and Space Situational Awareness.