Design criteria for a multispectral, medium resolution, optical remote sensing system for nano-satellites

Abstract

The use of small satellites has opened up new areas of opportunity enabling the use of this technology to solve problems with a high level of confidence at low cost for many areas including the remote sensing area. This paper presents the technical considerations for the design of a multispectral optical imaging system suitable for medium-resolution image acquisition working under the limitations of a small satellite, specifically a nano-satellite (satellite of less than 10Kg). The specifications of this kind of satellite platforms and how this affects the design considerations are discussed. The document describes a proposed design for the system and the applicability and potential use of such development.