The ESE observational architecture of the future vision is dramatically different from that of today. The vision suggests observations from multiple orbits, collaborating space assets, and even seamless integration of space and other assets. Observations from GEO or from Libration points rather than from LEO suggest spacecraft carrying instruments with large deployable apertures. Minimization of launch costs suggests that these large apertures have long life, be extremely mass and volume efficient, and have low life cycle cost. Another significant challenge associated with high latitude orbits is high precision pointing and control. Finally, networks of spacecraft flying in predetermined constellation will be required either to apply complementary assets to an observation or to extend the virtual aperture beyond that attainable with a single spacecraft. These changes dictate development of new technology on several fronts, which are outlined in this paper. A section on high speed communications will outline requirements and approaches now envisioned. Sensorwebs will be developed from the viewpoint of work already begun for both space and for terrestrial networks. Precision guidance, navigation and control will be addressed from the perspective of precision flying for repeat pass interferometry and extreme pointing stability for advanced altimetry. A separate section will address requirements for distributed systems. Large lightweight deployables will be discussed with an emphasis on inflatable technology and its predicted benefits for large aperture instruments. For each technology area listed, current state-of-the-art, technological approaches for future development, and projected levels of performance are outlined.


    Access

    Access via TIB

    Check availability in my library


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Achieving the Earth Science Enterprise Vision for the 21st Century: Platform Challenges


    Contributors:

    Conference:

    IGARSS 2001 ; 2001 ; Sydney, Australia


    Publication date :

    2001-01-01


    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




    Earth science vision: Platform technology challenges

    Lemmerman, L. / Delin, K. / Hadaegh, F. et al. | NTRS | 2001



    21st Century Vision of UGVs

    Kotora, J. / Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International | British Library Conference Proceedings | 1995


    NOAA: SCIENCE GAINS VALUE TO MEET 21st CENTURY CHALLENGES

    Lautenbacher, C. C. | British Library Online Contents | 2004


    NASA's Vision for 21st Century Aircraft

    Whitlow, Woodrow, Jr. | NTRS | 2002