Basic technological research
We research spacecraft instrumentation and cover all aspects from development, design, implementation and verification to end use of data from missions we participate in. We participate in high performance space projects that result in technologies that enables future space missions. We work in projects and missions with ESA, NASA JPL and other space professionals, such as Yale, MIT and Caltech, to deliver high-precision and robust solutions. We work with concepts, designs, implementations and verifications.
We research primarily in development of high-precision space mission instruments. In addition we work on optimizing the quality and reliability of space systems measurements by developing methods to calibrate and inter calibrate such systems.
Research in applications of space technology:
In parallel to general instrument improvements, we pursue new applications and technology uses based our core focus area results. This research has led to several novel measurement principles, which encompass multi-sensor-head star trackers for improved maneuverability, sub-arcsecond accuracy instruments, astronomical telescope field determination and guidance, miniature magnetometer packages for planetary landers, autonomous radiation impact handling and guider and rendezvous docking systems.
Among the research areas are:
- Implementation of formation flying instrumentation and associated methods and techniques.
- Inertial navigation techniques.
- Sub-arcsecond precision techniques.
- Fusion of observations from inertial and optical sensors in real time with the purpose of generating dependable and more robust imaging systems.
We are involved in several projects such as e.g.:
- ESA PROBA1, PROBA2, PROBA3, PROBA V enabling and support testing satellite missions.
- PROBA stands for PRoject for OnBoard Autonomy.
- PROBA-1 was designed as a new technology demonstration mission.
- Proba-2 is demonstrating in orbit a large number of new technologies in operation. These can be those which are an integral part of the spacecraft platform and those which are for demonstration purposes.
- PROBA-3 is devoted to the demonstration of technologies and techniques for highly-precise satellite formation flying. Formation flight technology developed for ESA includes a 'first' use on PROBA-3 'coronagraph' in 2023. A technology that can redefine the entire space sector in the next decade, enabling novel science, and future manned missions to the Moon and Mars.
- PROBA-V is used to study vegetation, growth and land use.
Find more information here at ESA
- PRISMA. This is a Swedish-led technology mission under the auspices of ESA to demonstrate formation flying and rendezvous technologies (in-orbit servicing), designed and developed by SSC (Swedish Space Corporation).
This is just a few of the priority areas in the field of Basic technological research on space systems and technology.