Massimiliano Rossi, Media Lario S.r.l.
Fabio Emilio Zocchi, Media Lario S.r.l.
Giovanni Bianucci, Media Lario S.r.l.
Ronan Rodrigues, Media Lario S.r.l.
Gabriele Grisoni, Media Lario S.r.l.
Additintal Authors: Umberto Papa, Federico Fiorenzoli, Andreas Findeis
Massimiliano Rossi, MAIT Manager, Media Lario S.r.l.
This paper reports the design, manufacturing, and integration of an optical multispectral payload for Earth observation, capable of achieving high spatial resolution with a Ground Sampling Distance (GSD) of less than 1 meter. The payload is designed to meet the stringent requirements of modern Earth observation missions, providing high-precision multispectral imagery for applications in urban planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster management.
The optical system incorporates a corrected Ritchey Chrétien telescope design with aspheric optics to achieve high performance across visible and near-infrared bands. A compact and lightweight CFRP structure, optimized through extensive thermal and structural analysis, ensures operational stability under the harsh conditions of space. The payload integrates state-of-the-art multispectral detectors with optimized bandpass filters for high spectral fidelity and radiometric accuracy.
The manufacturing phase focused on precision polishing, optical alignment, and meticulous metrology to ensure compliance with the sub-micron tolerances required for high-resolution imaging. The P/L test plan includes rigorous vibration, thermal-vacuum, and optical performance validation to simulate launch and on-orbit conditions confirming its capability to deliver high-quality multispectral data with sub-meter resolution.
This work highlights the challenges and solutions in developing next-generation optical payloads, emphasizing design innovations, manufacturing precision, and robust integration methodologies. The payload is poised to contribute to Earth observation missions, offering unparalleled detail and versatility for commercial applications.