Earth observation
Camera systems for earth and climate observation
State-of-the-art satellite technologies are an indispensable aid in earth observation, climate observation and navigation. Worldwide, wind speeds can be determined via satellites using UV lasers, for example, or the sizes of cultivated areas of special plants can be determined using special filters. Satellites also play a decisive role in disaster management, the optimization of transport infrastructure, environmental protection and nature conservation.
Functionality of satellites for earth observation
In earth observation, for example, high-quality camera systems are used. They have a very high resolution to capture the events on earth in detail. In order to enable the high resolutions of such precision earth observation cameras, powerful and precise optics are required. Camera systems in satellites can also be modified for different spectral ranges, from ultraviolet to infrared beams. The optical coatings specifically separate parts of the received light signals. Adherence to the required quality and the special location require high performance, durability and particularly strong resistance of the optics to external influences. However, disturbances during recording, such as movements of the atmosphere, can cause blurred images. The camera systems are additionally equipped with stabilization elements, such as gyroscopes
Wide-ranging possibilities, major challenges
Regardless of whether the climate or large fields or areas, such as jungles, are observed from space, harsh environmental conditions prevail in space. Earth observation satellites are continuously exposed to extreme radiation but must also regularly survive the results of so-called solar storms unscathed. In lower orbit, no atmosphere protects, but the Earth’s magnetic field reduces the stress on these satellites. Objects in higher orbits are subjected to maximum stress. Reliable coatings can protect optics. asphericon offers ultra-hard optical coatings for the spectral range from 380 to 5100 nm, among others, based on the company’s proprietary sputtering technology.
Requirements for optics for satellites
Optical systems must withstand the most extreme conditions in space missions. Through intensive development work and high-precision manufacturing processes, asphericon optics meet these requirements and provide a reliable solution for your space projects. High-quality surface shape tolerances as well as the lowest surface roughness values up to the Angström range guarantee ideal application possibilities. Our extensive coating portfolio rounds off the range. Different projects with different partners prove our high-quality work, e.g. our built-in aspheres and spheres in the spectrometers of the Sentinel-4 satellite.
Choose asphericon as your reliable partner for high-quality aspheres and high-end freeform systems for the earth observation industry. In addition to an extremely compact design, which allows space for further components in the system, best imaging qualities can be achieved through the special geometry. Special finishing processes, such as in-house high-end finishing, lead to the lowest roughness values.
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