Deep-space satellite-image reconstructions from field data by use of speckle imaging techniques: images and functional assessment.
Speckle imaging techniques have been shown to mitigate atmospheric-resolution limits, allowing near-diffraction-limited images to be reconstructed. Few images of extended objects reconstructed by use of these techniques have been published, and most of these results are for relatively bright objects. We present image reconstructions of an orbiting Molniya 3 spacecraft from data collected by use of a 2.3-m ground-based telescope. The apparent brightness of the satellite was 15th visual magnitude. Power-spectrum and bispectrum speckle imaging techniques are used prior to image reconstruction to ameliorate atmospheric blurring. We discuss how these images, although poorly resolved, can be used to provide information on the satellite's functional status. It is shown that our previously published optimal algorithms produce a higher-quality image than do conventional speckle imaging methods.