Opening Insights Cloud detection remains a fundamental challenge in satellite-based Earth Observation (EO). With up to two-thirds of the Earth’s surface covered in clouds at any time, a significant portion of remote sensing imagery (RSI) becomes contaminated, reducing its utility and increasing data transmission loads. Traditionally, cloud coverage estimation has relied on thresholding, time-differentiation, and […]
Opening Insights Preparing a payload or small satellite for launch requires a precise, multi-phase process to mitigate risk and ensure mission readiness. Across the space industry, facilities are designed to support a spectrum of payloads from compact CubeSats to larger spacecraft requiring 5-meter fairings. These facilities manage the full range of pre-launch ground operations, including […]
Opening Insights Engineering cameras have become an indispensable component in modern space missions, serving as critical instruments for visual feedback. These systems provide invaluable support in environments where real-time human intervention is limited or absent. In the harsh conditions of space, where communication delays can hinder timely decision-making, engineering cameras supplement traditional telemetry with visual […]
Opening Insights The growing presence of resident space objects (RSOs), including active satellites and orbital debris, poses increasing challenges for space situational awareness (SSA). Traditionally, ground-based radar and optical methods have been the primary means of tracking space debris. These methods are constrained by atmospheric conditions, lighting variations, and the limitations of ground-based observatories. As […]
Opening Insights Advancements in small satellite Earth observation have enabled these platforms to capture high-resolution imagery for diverse applications, including environmental monitoring, disaster response, and agricultural analysis. However, the process of generating traceable and calibrated image products for scientific use involves overcoming critical challenges in image processing and optical sensor calibration. The inherent constraints of […]
Opening Insights As modern space operations become more complex, the need for precise attitude determination and advanced situational awareness continues to grow. Star trackers have been a key part of satellite navigation, providing unmatched accuracy in determining spacecraft orientation. Recent advancements in sensor technology have introduced a new capability, allowing star trackers to support Space […]
Opening Insights The field of CubeSat solar arrays is experiencing rapid advancement, with new designs pushing the boundaries of power generation in compact form factors. Recent innovations are enabling small satellites to tackle increasingly power-intensive missions. One of the most exciting developments in CubeSat solar array technology is the emergence of origami-inspired deployable solar arrays. […]
Opening Insights Small satellite systems operate in complex environments where reliability and performance are paramount. Fault detection and prediction have traditionally relied on predefined thresholds and rule-based methods, but these approaches struggle to adapt to evolving conditions or detect subtle anomalies. Machine learning (ML) offers a transformative alternative, leveraging data-driven techniques to enhance accuracy, efficiency, […]
Opening Insights In an era where space exploration and satellite technology are reshaping industries, hosted payload services have become a game-changing solution. These services empower organizations to send payloads into orbit without the complexity, cost, and expertise required for managing their own satellites. By leveraging standardized satellite platforms that are designed to provision common infrastructure […]
As this time of the year circles around again, we would like to take this time to reflect upon the connections that matter the most and help to inspire - innovation, exploration, and discovery. The Apollo 8 mission launched on December 21 of 1968 and NASA astronauts Frank Borman, James Lovell, and William Anders became […]
