PROBA “SPACECRAFT FAMILY” SMALL AUTONOMOUS SATELLITES - A BELGIAN INNOVATIVE EXPORT PRODUCT

摘要

After the successful realisation of Proba 1, a 100 kg small autonomous satellite for ESA technology demonstration purposes now generating for more then 2,5 years splendid earth observation images, and the first steps set in the development of its successor PROBA 2, Verhaert and Spacebel teamed for the further worldwide commercialisation of this innovative Belgian product. In PROBA 1, Verhaert was the prime contractor and acted as the small systems integrator, where Spacebel was responsible for the on-board software development. Verhaert and Spacebel offer now a complete small satellite system solution to the user community. The combined company team deals with the system aspects, while Verhaert is responsible for the satellite platform realisation and the launch procurement. Spacebel realizes the control and exploitation ground segment and is responsible for all data management aspects (on board and ground software). Other elements, such as payload development and operations, are covered by other companies on a case-by-case basis in function of the client’s wishes.