Design and experimental research of a mega pixels CMOS remote sensing system

Abstract

Modern small satellites have been one of the hotspots of space technologies as the satellite technology develops. They represent the developing trend of smaller, faster, better and cheaper. Today more and more solid imaging sensors are utilized on modern small remote sensing satellites. But it’s difficult for the conventional CCD (Charge Coupled Device) to be fit on the satellites of around 10 kg, which require smaller size, lighter weight and lower power consumption remote sensing systems. CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) imaging sensor, which develops fast recently, provides an opportunity for such satellites. A CMOS remote sensing system was built, including the design of the optical and the electrical systems. Thermal experiments and radiation experiments were taken to research the performance of the CMOS camera under the space circumstance.