Overview
The light pollution characterization module (LPCM) enables low-cost multispectral Earth observation, especially when integrated into satellites with multiple daily flyovers of an area. It consists of multiple Single Pixel Detectors (SPDs) that are combined with specific wavelength filters, enabling multispectral measurements. Coupled with standard RGB cameras, this enables sensor fusion of RGB images with spectral data – increasing data density and unlocking various use case benefits – more accurate classification and tracking of changes.
Goals
Our goal was to develop a low-cost, effective module for collecting spectral data in combination with RGB images to map light pollution from Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The module would collect and process spectral data to enable efficient downlink operations, focusing on transmitting only the crucial data needed for further analysis.
Solution
The solution comprised two parts: the analog frontend board and the digital backend board. The analog frontend board consisted of multiple Single Pixel Detectors (SPDs) with filters at specific wavelengths. The digital backend board focused on collecting data from the Analog-Digital Converter (ADC) and processing it on the STM microcontroller. The data was then further processed using FFT analysis and saved for downlinking. The digital board also handled communication with the satellite platform and mission reconfiguration based on uplinked commands.
Results
- Analog and digital boards were successfully designed, developed, and tested using space-grade components
- Upload and processing of commands for mission reconfiguration were performed successfully
- Collection of signals from ADC, processing using FFT, and classification of signals through spectral unmixing were successfully tested
