Next Generation High Resolution Optical Earth Observation Systems - architecture & technologies

Paper number

IAC-14,B1,P,25,x27104

Author

Mr. Xavier Roser, Thales Alenia Space France, France

Year

2014

Abstract

Building on its long experience of High (< 1m) to Extremely High Resolution observation systems and optical instrument such as PLEÏADES (2010, 0.7m resolution), HELIOS 1 and 2., THALES ALENIA SPACE is developing the next generation system and associated technologies, following the different axes to ensure a complete offer:
\begin{itemize}\item Improving the affordability of PLEÏADES class performances, thanks to high integration, mass reduction, resulting in a satellite with half the masse of PLEÏADES and compatible will low cost launch solutions such as (VEGA in VESPA, or SOYUZ in central ASAP).\end{itemize}
\begin{itemize}\item Maximizing the optical & observation performances achievable with a medium class launcher (such as VEGA), while ensuring a “clean” satellite compatible with the space operation low. The innovative solution based on technology development targets a resolution twice better than PLEÏADES.\end{itemize}
\begin{itemize}\item -	Developing solution for extremely high resolution system from a higher altitude to ensure with 1 satellite a very good 1 day revisit performances.\end{itemize}
The key instrument technologies  enabling these breakthrough will be identified with their current technology development plan.
\begin{itemize}\item New generation of TDI detectors and highly integrated video electronics\end{itemize}
\begin{itemize}\item Active optics for more compact and lighter telescope\end{itemize}
\begin{itemize}\item Innovative thermal control to enable long operation while also reducing PF energy resource.\end{itemize}
The service module integrates also significant technologies innovation, such as:
\begin{itemize}\item Highly integrated compression and memory unit\end{itemize}
\begin{itemize}\item High data rate telemetry (X and Ka Band) using bi-polar to reach to 2 to 3 Gbps.\end{itemize}
\begin{itemize}\item Highly integrated avionics to reduce power and mass\end{itemize}
\begin{itemize}\item Electrical propulsion to increase mission capability within a launcher thanks to an injection on a low transfer orbit and end of life perigee lowering (this improves the satellite payload capability on a VEGA launch by more than 100 kg.).\end{itemize}
The paper will illustrate these evolutions and the benefits of enabling technologies with satellites under development on in design phases by Thales Alenia Space. It will conclude with a road-map for future optical observation systems and related technologies.

Abstract document

IAC-14,B1,P,25,x27104.brief.pdf

Manuscript document

(absent)