GEOSAT-1 was the first satellite of the second generation of the Disaster Monitoring Constellation (DMC). The DMC is an international programme of Low Earth Orbit satellites. Working together, the network has the capability to provide a daily global imaging capability for rapid-response disaster monitoring and mitigation. 

In 2005, SSTL started planning for second generation DMC missions - with improved imaging capabilities - to be added to the current first generation DMC and coordinated by DMCii (DMC International Imaging Ltd.).  

The Second Generation DMC satellites not only provide data continuity, but also a greatly enhanced imaging capability to cover large areas of territory at enhanced resolution. The objective is to offer the timely imagery (broadcast service) to a global community of customers with the capability of a direct downlink to a customer ground station. The combination of multiple spacecraft in constellation provides for daily coverage at a resolution that enables effective monitoring of the rapidly changing environment.

The next generation DMC spacecraft were designed to build upon the extensive experience built up through the first generation DMC system. Both GEOSAT-1 and UK-DMC-2 spacecraft were developed to carry out a commercially-focused operational imaging mission, supporting rapid-response, large-area mapping for a range of applications.

Enhancements in these new-generation DMC spacecraft included a modified payload design allowing a transition to a lower ground sampling distance whilst maintaining the 600 km swath. Improved power and data handling subsystems allow a greater imaging capacity so that swath lengths of up to 1000 km can be captured. The higher imaging capacity is augmented by an X-band downlink operating at 40 Mbit/s.

The GEOSAT-1 satellite incorporates many enhancements over the existing DMC-1G series, effectively starting a new series with a platform, referred to as SSTL-100 (first used in 2002), based on current technologies. The spacecraft structure employs aluminum-alloy and aluminum honeycomb panels, and was designed to be compatible with a wide range of launchers. The internal structure includes a stack of "micro-tray" modules traditionally used by SSTL in all its microsatellites. However, a number of "nano-trays" of SNAP nanosatellite heritage are also included. The stack of trays carries an optical platform, and between the stack and the panels, the battery, wheels and propulsion system are carried. Each spacecraft employs a fully passive thermal control system.

GEOSAT satellites are all in Sun-synchronous orbits.

There are two ground stations for GEOSAT-1. Svalbard (Norway) allows the downloading of data on each orbit. Boecillo (Spain) allows four further contacts each day.

The GEOSAT-1 mission is fully owned and operated by GEOSAT company.

Related links

Learn more about GEOSAT-1:

• GEOSAT-1 on the eoPortal (The information provided is sourced and updated by external entities. For further details, please consult our Terms and Conditions page.)