In the framework of its Earth observation program, ESA selected a set of instruments to be carried on a large satellite using the Columbus platform. An alternative scenario of three dedicated missions, based on moderate size satellites using recurring elements from ERS/SPOT, is proposed. This solution, which meets the mission objectives, provides better flexibility and resiliency with respect to financial contingency, conflicting user requirements, difficulties during development, launch, and in-orbit operations. Having a perspective of continuity, the missions will be, in the future, under the responsibility of user entities. It is therefore proposed to develop a preoperational system which will be transferred at recurring costs, after in-orbit qualification. The results of a feasibility study, including both space and ground segments, for two components (Globsat for environment and Metoc for operational meteo/oceano) are presented. Concerning the ground segment, an integrated network of stations compatible with several dedicated satellites is described.
Globsat/Metoc: An Alternative Approach for a European Earth Observation Programme from the Polar Orbit
1992
7 pages
Report
Keine Angabe
Englisch
Natural Resource Surveys , Ocean Sciences & Technology , Meteorological Instruments & Instrument Platforms , Meteorological Data Collection, Analysis, & Weather , Earth atmosphere , European space programs , Meteorology , Oceanography , Polar orbits , Remote sensing , Satellite observation , Earth environment , Feasibility analysis , Ground stations , Mission planning , Satellite-borne instruments , Foreign technology
Support of METOC Sabbatical Research and Training
NTIS | 2000
|United Kingdom Earth Observation Programme
NTIS | 1992
|