The AEROS ocean observation mission and its CubeSat pathfinder

TL;DR

The paper presents the development of the AEROS nanosatellite mission, integrating advanced sensors and communication systems to enhance ocean observation capabilities through a CubeSat platform and a comprehensive data processing infrastructure.

Contribution

It introduces novel sensor integration, a versatile satellite structure, and a cloud-based data analysis system for improved ocean monitoring in a CubeSat framework.

Findings

Development of miniaturized hyperspectral imager

Implementation of software-defined communication system

Creation of a cloud-based data processing platform

Abstract

AEROS aims to develop a nanosatellite as a precursor of a future system of systems, which will include assets and capabilities of both new and existing platforms operating in the Ocean and Space, equipped with state-of-the-art sensors and technologies, all connected through a communication network linked to a data gathering, processing and dissemination system. This constellation leverages scientific and economic synergies emerging from New Space and the opportunities in prospecting, monitoring, and valuing the Ocean in a sustainable manner, addressing the demand for improved spatial, temporal, and spectral coverage in areas such as coastal ecosystems management and climate change assessment and mitigation. Currently, novel sensors and systems, including a miniaturized hyperspectral imager and a flexible software-defined communication system, are being developed and integrated into a new versatile satellite structure, supported by an innovative on-board software. Additional sensors, like the LoRaWAN protocol and a wider field of view RGB camera, are under study. To cope with data needs, a Data Analysis Centre, including a cloud-based data and telemetry dashboard and a back-end layer, to receive and process acquired and ingested data, is being implemented to provide tailored-to-use remote sensing products for a wide range of applications for private and institutional stakeholders.