This development project is the result of close cooperation between ELYA and the TOPTEC research center. Supported by the European Space Agency (ESA), the project focuses on the development of an advanced deployable optical system for small satellites and CubeSat platforms.
The primary challenge was to design a telescope that can be stowed within the extremely limited volume available during launch and then automatically deployed into a high-performance optical system with exceptional precision and stability once in orbit.
Key Technologies
- Piezo actuators for precise positioning of mirror segments.
- Shape memory alloys for unlocking and deployment mechanisms.
- In-orbit mirror alignment and active optical adjustment methods.
- Mechanisms enabling repeatable deployment with micron-level precision.
- Design optimized for harsh space environments, including thermal cycling and structural loads.
Benefits of the Solution
The deployable optical aperture significantly increases the amount of collected light while maintaining a compact launch configuration. This enables higher image quality, improved signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and more valuable Earth Observation data for demanding space missions.
The project also demonstrates ELYA’s capabilities in the development of high-precision space optics, optomechanical systems, active optics, and deployable telescope technologies for advanced satellite applications.
Application Areas
- Earth Observation missions.
- Agriculture and forestry monitoring.
- Infrastructure and energy network inspection.
- Disaster response and environmental monitoring.
- Security and defense applications.
- Satellite imaging and surveillance systems.
