Launching 2009: The NigeriaSat-2 mission – High-performance Earth observation with a small satellite

摘要

The NigeriaSat-2 mission is a high-resolution imaging mission currently under construction and due for launch in 2009. This paper will emphasise the potential of a mission of this type, particularly highlighting mission performance parameters such as image throughput and ground coverage rate. It will also underscore the versatility of the platform by highlighting the extensive modes of operation that are possible, and the possibilities that these could have for the end customer. It will then discuss the technological advances that allow operational high resolution imagery to be captured on board a 300kg satellite. Attention will be paid to the mechanical engineering challenges of isolating the payload from thermal distortions introduced into the rest of the spacecraft platform and hence the novel way in which SSTL has solved this, allowing a very high geolocation accuracy to be achieved. Finally included in the paper will be a discussion on the advanced attitude and orbit control sub-system, which provides both high stability during imaging as well as high agility and a fast slew capability to transition between imaging opportunities.