The Advanced CAT tool provides a convenient way for you to carry out close approach analyses for multiple satellites. The satellite may be defined within the scenario or by an external file. External file types include the following:
- ephemeris files
- Satellite object files (*.sa)
- GPS almanac files
- GP data files (i.e. TLE files that use SGP4 propagator)
After applying your selected filters, Advanced CAT performs close approach analyses between primary objects (for example, satellites owned by or otherwise of interest to you) and secondary objects (those presenting a risk of collision), with reference to a threshold -- a minimum acceptable distance -- between the ellipsoidal threat volumes of the objects. Results are summarized in several available reports.
Advanced CAT also provides the option of having the close approach calculation use the range between the objects as the criterion rather than ellipsoid separation.