Earth observation system: Spacecraft design

Abstract

The Earth Observation Satellite (EOS) was a study funded by NASA Langley Research Center. The study was a system investigation of the total spacecraft integration with its major subsystems and sensors. Mission optimization and ranking using various sensors was also an objective of the contract. Integrating the spacecraft and major subsystems with the large microwave radiometer was done, essentially making the radiometer a free-flyer without an external spacecraft. Another program objective was to provide design and analysis data on microwave radiometer satellites augmented with additional Earth, ocean, and atmospheric sensors. A top-down systems approach resulted in a detailed design integrating subsystems and sensors into the microwave support structure. An important objective of the program was to identify technology needs for Earth observation satellites. The definition and understanding of these design drivers are critical in order to set priorities for future EOS work.