The Trade-Off Space of High Resolution Imagers on Small Satellites
- Paper number
IAC-08.B4.6.A9
- Author
Dr. Mike Cutter, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd, United Kingdom
- Coauthor
Mr. Dan Lobb, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd., United Kingdom
- Coauthor
Mr. David Purll, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd., United Kingdom
- Year
2008
- Abstract
Optical payloads have been improving in resolution for many years; within the next decade small satellites capable of 1m and sub-1m imaging performance will be launched. Achieving this revolutionary step poses many constraints on both the imager and platform if a small satellite envelope is to be retained. This paper will discuss both the trade offs leading to feasible 1m resolution telescope designs and the improvements in supporting technology (downlink rates, attitude control stability, optically stable structures etc) required to make these useful on a small satellite bus. The paper will also discuss detector technologies, thermo-mechanically stable structures spacecraft and the impact of a modular platform built around a telescope to enable sub-metre imaging missions which can still be realistically called ‘small satellites’.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-08.B4.6.A9.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.