New imaging technology could bring more focused Earth observations

Imaging technology that could allow more focused observation of environmental conditions on Earth is being developed in a search conducted at the University of Strathclyde, UK. the production of multispectral imaging (MSI), a new imaging technology that is a fraction of the size of conventional instruments. It could be installed in nanosatellites and used for:

• Monitoring climate change
• Observing the activity of the oceans
• Detecting forest fires and
• Tracking maritime traffic.

The study received £ 719,000 as one of Dr. Graham Turnock, managing director of the British Space Agency, said: "The United Kingdom is a world leader in the field of Earth Observation.Technology, which allows us not only to better understand the planet on which we live, but also offers exceptional export potential – providing highly qualified jobs and UK economic growth.

"This new funding is fundamental in our mission to grow the UK's space economy and maintain our leadership in these areas of science and technology, and I look forward to seeing the results. "

The New Imaging Technology Device

Researchers from the Strathclyde Physiology Department cs works with partners, led by the Wideblue product design company, to produce an MSI technology with a compact payload It will be designed, built and then tested taking images during a flight attached to a drone.

Other Research Partners:

• The Scottish Center for Excellence in Satellite Applications and
• The Signal and Image Processing Center

A MSI commercial satellite can measure up to 5.7mx 2.5mx 2.5mm and 2.8t. The new device could equip a more affordable 4kg 10cmx10cmx30cm satellite and would revolve around 500km above Earth.

Dr. Daniel Oi, physics professor at Strathclyde and senior researcher of the project, said: works, this instrument could open pathways Observation of Earth that are different from conventional operations.

"Since nanosatellites are smaller, they do not have the ability to take a lot of data, process it, and communicate it, and the technology we're developing allows us to reduce the amount of data that's collected, sensitivity to specific events or targets, and will allow more effective monitoring of the Earth.

"Instead of a very small number of very expensive MSI satellites, our instrument could be mounted on many nanosatellites to monitor the globe continuously. No satellite can be in two locations at the same time, so you can collect the right data at the right time.

"The first results of our research have been very promising and the project is part of a large and growing space industry in Scotland."