The Hyperspectral Imager for the Coastal Ocean (HICO): Fast Buildfor the ISS

摘要

The Hyperspectral Imager for the Coastal Ocean (HICO) is the only spaceborne hyperspectral sensor designed for characterization of the coastal maritime environment. It was taken from a set of written requirements to a complete hardware package ready for spacecraft-level testing in 16 months. It had to meet NASA's safety requirements for the ISS. A means of directing the sensor's line of sight to off-nadir directions was essential. Construction of HICO was made possible by extensive use of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components, with minor modifications for spaceflight/vacuum conditions where necessary. Efficient engineering combined these components into a complete system that met all requirements.