Successful in-orbit testing of hyperspectral comprehensive observation satellite ground system

Successful in-orbit testing of hyperspectral comprehensive observation satellite ground system
by Staff Writers
Beijing, China (SPX) May 25, 2023

On May 19, the China Resources Satellite Application Center, under the auspices of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, conducted a thorough review meeting in Beijing. The meeting was centered on the "In-Orbit Test Report of the Hyperspectral Integrated Observation Satellite Ground System." The expert panel meticulously studied the ground system report and supplementary materials related to the hyperspectral integrated observation satellite. Following an intensive discussion and interrogative process, the panel unanimously approved the in-orbit testing of the ground system.

The Hyperspectral Comprehensive Observation Satellite was successfully launched into orbit on December 9, 2022. Developed by the Eighth Academy of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, the satellite forms an integral component of the high-resolution project. The design takes advantage of mature payload technology inherited from the Gaofen-5 satellite.

The payload includes a visible short-wave infrared hyperspectral camera, an atmospheric trace gas differential absorption spectrometer, and a wide-format thermal infrared imager. Primarily, the satellite serves functions such as pollution monitoring, environmental protection, atmospheric composition monitoring, natural resource surveying, and climate change research. It plays a vital role in national ecosystem protection, restoration efforts, and the furtherance of China's digital infrastructure.

The in-orbit testing of the Hyperspectral Comprehensive Observation Satellite's ground system was a collaborative endeavor led by the China Resources Satellite Application Center. The testing, defined by a clear outline and specific rules, was marked by strong cooperation among the satellite engineering team, primary and secondary users across various industries, and the satellite and payload teams.

The process, spanning more than three months, involved extensive satellite-ground integration testing. This included tests of geometric, spectral, and radiative characteristics of various payloads, nearly 60 capability tests such as ground data reception, processing, storage, archiving, and distribution, as well as mission planning tests.

The results verified that the functions and performance indicators of both the integrated satellite-ground system and the ground system alone align with the general requirements for the development of hyperspectral comprehensive observation satellite projects.

Currently, the Hyperspectral Comprehensive Observation Satellite has progressed to the application testing phase. The China Resources Satellite Application Center will maintain its close collaboration with the primary user unit, the satellite and payload teams, to ensure efficient operation of the ground processing system. Alongside this, they aim to enhance the performance of the ground system continually, striving for superior data product quality and service levels.