Ralcam1

RALCam 1 Modified, builds on the design of the successful TopSat camera to provide even higher resolution images. It uses a different focal plane assembly and CCD detector to achieve 1.5m GSD from 500km.

  • RALCam 1 is a compact, low mass camera capable of producing 1.5m GSD images from 500km.
  • Ideally suited to small satellites.
  • It is a low cost entry solution for governments or commercial organizations wanting high resolution imagery from their own satellite missions.

Ralcam 1 Modified

Detector Specification

CCD

Number of Pixels in the array

8000

Pixel size (microns)

5

Array length (mm)

40

Number of output ports

7

Camera Specification

Resolution, or Ground Sampling Distance (m)

1.5 panchromatic, 3.0 three colour

Orbit altitude (km)

500

MTF

>15% at Nyquist frequency (both Pan and RGB).

Image Mode

Pushbroom

Operations

Simultaneous imaging in all channels. Image length limited only by on-board data storage.

Digitization

10 bits.

Design Life

>2 years.

Data Rate

~80 Mbps from pan channel.

Focal length (m)

1.68

Input aperture diameter (mm)

200

F number

8.40

Swath (km)

12

Size (mm x mm x mm)

810 x 615 x 350

Mass (kg)

32

Power (W)

< 20

RALCam 1- Design

Detector

Si CCD linear arrays (commercial).

Electronics

RAL designed. Uses custom ASICs.

Data i/f

Spacewire running at 200Mbps.

Structure

CFRP with low CME resin system.

Optics

Zerodur mirrors, Aluminium coated. Two off axis and one on axis.

Thermal

MLI blankets + low conductance mounts. Heaters to maintain operating temperature.

Door

Single shot door actuated by wax pin puller.