What is a feasibility assessment?
Before a future tracking request is approved, Slingshot performs a feasibility assessment to determine whether our Slingshot Global Sensor Network (SGSN) is likely to successfully collect the requested tracking data.
This assessment helps ensure customers receive reliable data and sets realistic expectations before tracking begins.
Why is a feasibility assessment required?
Not every space object can be observed consistently. Tracking performance depends on several factors, including:
Object size
Object shape
Object reflectivity
Lighting conditions
Historical observation opportunities
Rather than relying on predictions alone, Slingshot evaluates historical tracking performance to determine whether future tracking is likely to be successful.
How is feasibility determined?
Each object in your request is evaluated using two historical checks.
1. Recent Tracking Activity
First, we determine whether the object has been successfully tracked by the SGSN within the last 30 days.
To pass this check, the object must have been successfully observed at least three times during that period.
Example
If you request tracking for NORAD ID 25544 (ISS ZARYA) from June 8–15, 2026, and the SGSN tracked the object on:
June 1
June 2
June 4
the object passes this check.
If only two successful observations exist during the previous 30 days, the object does not pass this stage of the assessment.
2. Historical Seasonal Performance
Next, we evaluate how well the object was tracked during the same date range one year earlier.
This helps account for seasonal viewing conditions and recurring observation opportunities.
To pass this check, tracking data must exist for at least 30% of the requested days during the same period one year ago.
For example, if your request covers 7 days, tracking data must exist for at least 3 days during that same week the previous year.
If the object was launched within the past year, this historical comparison is skipped.
What happens if my request is approved?
If the object passes the feasibility assessment:
Your request moves forward in the ordering process.
Payment (if applicable) is collected.
Tracking is scheduled during the requested time window.
Data is delivered once collection is complete.
What happens if my request is not approved?
If the assessment indicates that reliable tracking is unlikely, your request may not be approved.
This helps prevent customers from purchasing tracking requests that have a low probability of producing useful results.
If your request is not approved, you may:
Adjust your requested tracking window.
Submit a request for a different object.
Contact the Slingshot team to discuss possible alternatives.
Does approval guarantee data collection?
No.
A successful feasibility assessment indicates that tracking is likely based on historical performance, but it does not guarantee successful observations.
Actual collection can still be affected by operational and environmental conditions during the requested tracking period.
Need help?
If you have questions about a feasibility assessment or would like assistance selecting an object or tracking window, contact the Slingshot Support team. We're happy to help you maximize the likelihood of a successful future tracking request.