iSIM Earth observation camera
Optics for Space is a particularly challenging technology, due to the extremely harsh environment during both launch and operation. The iSIM (Integrated Standard Imager for Microsatellites) Earth observation camera features a compact, lightweight and quasi-athermal opto-mechanical design which was conceived by IDOM to handle the twofold challenge of providing optimum stability during observation in orbit while coping with the demanding launching conditions.
iSIM is a binocular camera with an aperture of 170mm, on its first implementation, which has been prepared in two versions: precision and panoramic. The former provides a resolution of 1.1m over a swath width of 7.5km, the latter provides a resolution of 2.5m over a swath width of 15km. IDOM’s design for the optical mount out-stands for the low structural to optical mass ratio, the high thermal and structural stability and the minimal distortion cells needed for a highly sensitive optical configuration. IDOM’s collaboration with SATLANTIS expanded to the fabrication and testing of the first qualification units and the design of the electronics box.
The iSIM camera was launched for the first time on the Japan’s HTV-9 mission aboard the H-IIB launch vehicle to the ISS on 20 May 2020.
More information about the project can be found in Murga G. et al. “A compact, lightweight and quasi-thermal Optical Bench for iSIM 170”, Proc. SPIE 11530, Sensors, Systems and Next Generation Satellites XXIV, 115300Y (2020)
