Satellite-based Earth observation is one of the essential capabilities within modern commanc, control, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C2ISR) capabilities. It enables information superiority and precise situational assessment. Additionally, capabilities such as change detection or battle damage assessment are supported by it.
Small LEO satellites present an interesting option in building this capability to implement a cost-effective and resilient solution for Austria in the long term. By utilizing a very low Earth orbit (VLEO) of approximately 300 km, a spatial resolution in the sub-meter range can be achieved even with moderate aperture diameters of approximately 30 cm. However, the high atmospheric resistance in VLEO results in rapid decay, limiting the lifespan of such satellites (even with thrusters). For a cost-effective solution, appropriate design, minimal weight and volume, as well as technological flexibility for the optical payload, are essential.
The main technical challenge is to realize this high resolution in a real system under space conditions. Not only do the highly variable thermal conditions and the intense stresses during launch play a role, but also the quality of the optical design and integration into the satellite bus.
Additionally, the high relative motion between the satellite and the Earth's surface causes strong motion artifacts at high resolutions. Therefore, active motion compensation is necessary as a key technology for sub-meter resolution.
This project addresses this challenge by developing, analyzing, and testing:
- A robust optical design,
- A thoroughly considered mechanical structure, and
- An innovative mechatronic motion compensation system.
As a result, an initial prototype for a high-resolution optical payload will be created, primarily developed and manufactured by Austrian companies, and made available to the Austrian Armed Forces for future space missions cost-effectively, unrestrictedly, and quickly. The functionality of the manufactured prototype will be tested as part of a flight test.
