Assessment of Aging Effects through Remote Sensing Using Color Photometry

Accurately characterizing spacecraft materials and the effects of aging is essential for space situational awareness. This study explores the use of a color index taxonomy, developed from laboratory data, as a tool for distinguishing satellite materials based on their optical signatures. The approach extends this taxonomy to include both pristine materials and their irradiated states. Samples from various chemical groups were exposed to high-energy (95 keV) electron irradiation, while their optical properties were monitored using Directional Hemispherical Reflectance (DHR) measurements. Signal intensity was analyzed using the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS) astronomical filter set. Both visual and quantitative assessments of color-color diagrams were conducted to evaluate the feasibility of differentiating materials through photometric measurements. The results demonstrate the potential of color indices as a remote sensing technique for identifying spacecraft materials and assessing material degradation in space environments