Intelligent high performance optical imaging system for nano-spacecraft

MEMS Start proposes to develop a novel, intelligent and cost-effective class of ultra-wide field-of-view, high resolution compact optical system for micro/nano spacecraft. Easily deployable nano-satellite constellation equipped with the proposed optical system and intelligent image processing for relevant data extraction would enable new capabilities of real-time continuous surveillance and communication over very large area. In this Phase I program, MEMS Start will develop a new optical system and evaluate its overall system performance (power, data, processing, etc.) and its compatibility to CubeSat platform. The proposed system will have > 40-100X increase in Ground Sample Distance (GSD) when compared to state-of-the-art space-based optical imaging system with similar field-of-view (FOV); and >18X increase in FOV, 6X faster lens system and 3X size reduction when compared to state-of-the-art miniature satellite optical imaging system with similar GSD and size (Figure 2). These proposed designs capabilities exceed those in other state-of-the-art systems. Such reduction in size, weight and power while having the proposed capabilities would enable new missions that previously not possible.