An Earth observation mission based on the MiniSIL™ platform

Abstract Over the past several years Space Innovations Limited has developed an integrated suite of satellite sub-systems particularly suited to use on small satellites. The sub-systems are inherently modular, with simple electrical and mechanical interfaces, making them readily adaptable to different satellite configurations, a concept known as semi-standardisation. The Company has now developed two generic types of low-cost small satellite bus which also make use of this concept: MicroSIL for satellites in the mass range 40–80kg; and MiniSIL for satellites in the range 100–350kg. Both bus types can support all the different stabilisation methods including spinning, 3-axis control and gravity gradient stabilisation. They have simple mechanical and electrical interfaces with the payload and are able to support a wide variety of missions including Earth resources, scientific, communications and technology demonstration missions. This paper covers the MiniSIL™ basic features and follows on with an application of the bus as a 3-axis stabilised Earth Observation (EO) platform providing multi-spectral 15m resolution from an 800km orbit and using an SIL ground Station.