A global multi-purpose data collection system based on the KAISTSAT-4 small satellite and mobile terminals

摘要

KAISTSAT-4 is the fourth small experimental satellite developed by Satellite Technology Research Center (SaTReC) of Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST). Among several payloads uploaded in KAISTSAT-4, DCS (Data Collection System) payload is designed to apply for Earth environmental monitoring purposes. Although there have been similar satellite missions and communication networks before, most of them have relied on heavy and expensive satellite system. KAISTSAT-4 will exploit a simple and cost-effective implementation of global data collection strategy. SaTReC and Institute of Telecommunication Research of University of South Australia have joined together to operate the 'Data Collection System' in each of their satellites. It will demonstrate the efficiency of LEO satellite communication technology by adopting new protocols for bi-directional messaging, onboard modem algorithms and architectures. The primary application of DCS will be oceanographic research which is associated with ARGO (Array for Real-time Geostrophic Oceanoraphy) environmental monitoring project. Higher data transfer capability will be achieved by using a custom multiple access method involving two-way communication. With the efficient control of power consumption of mobile terminals, the lifetime of each buoy can be increased. DCS will be a good candidate demonstrating the potential of low cost LEO micro-satellites for implementing cost-effective communication network.